Malaysia Blocks Over 3,500 Piracy Websites Under Ongoing Copyright Crackdown

Kuala Lumpur – The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has taken firm action against online copyright infringement, blocking access to 3,553 websites involved in piracy between 2021 and October 2024. These websites were found to be distributing copyrighted materials without permission, including local titles such as Syurga Itu Bukan Mudah, Jangan Lupa Janji, and Chinta Wrong Direction.

Additionally, 40 more enforcement actions were taken against websites involved in the sale of counterfeit goods and services, both online and offline. Those found guilty of such offences may face fines of at least RM1 million or imprisonment of up to five years, under Sections 99 to 102 of the Trademarks Act 2019.

Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), shared this update in Parliament while responding to a question about the protection of intellectual property rights. She confirmed that the Cyber Copyright Enforcement (CyCore) programme, launched by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) in 2021, remains active.

The CyCore initiative involves collaboration between MOTAC, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), internet service providers (ISPs), and the creative industry. It aims to combat digital piracy through access blocking, particularly for newly released local film content distributed online.

This coordinated effort reflects Malaysia’s commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and supporting the local creative industry through stricter digital enforcement.

My comments:

This case highlights Malaysia’s strong stance against copyright infringement and digital piracy. Through initiatives like the CyCore programme and collaboration with key stakeholders, the enforcement reflects a commitment to safeguarding intellectual property and supporting the creative industry.  It also emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation between authorities, copyright holders, and digital platforms in combating online piracy.

Wan Kamalia

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