MCMC seeks comprehensive explanation from Meta over WhatsApp issues
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) demanded a comprehensive explanation from Meta Platforms Inc. on Wednesday regarding WhatsApp accounts that have been suspended, rendered inaccessible or…
Source: The Star · October 2, 2026 at 3:02 AM · AI-assisted report
Single-sourceMALAYSIA, 2 OCTOBER 2026 —
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) demanded a comprehensive explanation from Meta Platforms Inc. on Wednesday regarding WhatsApp accounts that have been suspended, rendered inaccessible or accessed without authorisation, after receiving 92 complaints from users.
In a statement, the commission said it submitted an official request to Meta on Sept. 25 and held discussions with the technology company on Sept. 28. Meta requested until Oct. 2 to provide feedback. "MCMC urges Meta to provide a comprehensive explanation as well as an immediate solution for the affected user accounts, and will determine subsequent actions based on that feedback," the statement read.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said earlier on Wednesday he had instructed MCMC to issue a statement clarifying Meta's response regarding the hacking and deactivation issues. He added that he had yet to receive updates on the outcome of the discussions between MCMC and Meta.
MCMC previously announced it was examining the complaints received and had forwarded the relevant cases to Meta for clarification and further action. The commission also explained that account takeovers or hacking, and account blocking, are two different matters.
The complaints highlight growing concern over the security and reliability of a messaging platform widely used for personal and business communication in Malaysia. MCMC's intervention signals regulatory scrutiny of how global technology firms handle account integrity and user protection under local communications law.
Meta's response by the Oct. 2 deadline will determine the commission's next steps, which could include further regulatory action if the explanation or proposed remedies are deemed insufficient.
Related: Meta Platforms Inc. · Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) · Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil · Malaysia
Malaysia Impact
4/10The regulatory scrutiny of Meta's WhatsApp security issues signals increased compliance pressure on global tech firms operating in Malaysia, potentially affecting the technology and telecom sectors.
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