At the 17ᵗʰ Conference of ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, ASEAN member states endorsed the "Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN," reaffirming their commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and responsible digital environment across the region.
The declaration emphasizes the importance of promoting a resilient and people-centered ASEAN Community by addressing challenges posed by the misuse of social media, including disinformation, hate speech, and online exploitation.
Ministers highlighted the vital role of the information sector in engaging with stakeholders, including social media platforms, to develop and implement practical measures that address harmful online content while safeguarding freedom of expression.
The conference acknowledged the ongoing development of the "Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN," aiming to provide pragmatic strategies for enhancing online safety and promoting cyber wellness across member states.
Malaysia, leading this initiative, is spearheading efforts to provide harmonized guidance for the region, assess social media regulations across ASEAN member states, and support practical guidelines reflecting ASEAN's unique context, with the next AMRI meeting scheduled to convene in Cambodia in 2027.
