ASEAN representatives attend a workshop in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday to discuss responsible use of social media platforms.   --Photo Anouthone

ASEAN workshop moves forward with social media guidelines

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Representatives from ASEAN member states met in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday for a validation workshop on the Guidelines for the Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN.
The workshop took place at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia and was chaired by Malaysia’s Minister of Communications, Mr Fahmi Fadzil, as part of a broader initiative under Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship.
The guidelines are being developed in partnership with the Ministry of Communications, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, and ISIS Malaysia, aiming to address growing digital challenges across Southeast Asia.
In his opening remarks, the Minister said “The guidelines are part of a broader collaboration which aims to make a simple, more respectful and worthwhile online speech for everyone in the region. They are not meant to be rigid, but a flexible and solitary reference that encourages responsible behaviour, supports digital literacy and promotes accountability in our digital communities.”
The guidelines are built around four core pillars: recognition, education and awareness, collaboration, and sustainability.
Mr Harris Zainul, Director of Research at ISIS Malaysia, presented research findings based on surveys and interviews conducted across the region. He said ASEAN’s increased digital connectivity had brought social and economic benefits but also exposed users to greater online risks.
“While platforms have enabled connection and commerce, they have also facilitated scams, hate speech, cyberbullying, and child exploitation,” he said. He added that a harmonised approach is needed, as fragmented national laws create inconsistencies and enforcement challenges.
During the meeting, participants shared the issues they face, including scams, misinformation, child effect, and discrimination.
Many acknowledged the difficulty of ensuring platform compliance when laws differ widely across the region.
Survey data showed that over 70 percent of social media users in ASEAN have encountered harmful content, with financial scams, fake news, and hate speech being the most common. Experts also called for stronger digital literacy education to help users navigate online spaces safely.
The workshop is part of a multi-phase process that includes research, drafting, and finalisation of the guidelines.
Feedback from this session will help shape the final version, which will serve as a regional reference to promote safer, more responsible use of social media platforms.
The event reflects ASEAN’s commitment to improving digital governance and fostering a secure, inclusive online environment for all.

By Souksamai Boulom
(Latest Update May 23, 2025)