The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been urged not to move forward with its directive requiring all internet service providers (ISPs) in Malaysia to implement Domain Name System (DNS) redirection.

In an official statement on his X account today, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil (@fahmi_fadzil) said that MCMC should continue engaging with all stakeholders.

“Cybercrime issues, including access to gambling, prostitution, and pornography websites, are of great concern, and we need comprehensive solutions for these problems,” he stated.

Fahmi reassured Malaysians that the government remains committed to ensuring online safety, particularly for children and families.

However, after considering feedback from MCMC’s engagement sessions and the public, Fahmi said he had requested MCMC to halt the implementation of the DNS redirection method.

Some internet users voiced their frustrations on social media, complaining that the DNS redirection blocked their access to gaming sites and prevented them from downloading VPN (virtual private network) applications. This backlash also led to an online petition against the DNS redirection.

Fahmi had previously defended the initiative, emphasizing that it was aimed at restricting access to harmful sites, particularly those related to pornography and online gambling.