Malaysia Orders TikTok to Address Content Targeting King

Malaysia ordered TikTok on Thursday to explain and address what officials called the platform's failure to act quickly against content targeting the royal institution. The Communications and Multimedia Commission said the material included AI-generated videos and manipulated images linked to an account falsely claiming association with Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar.

The regulator stated that such content falls under sensitive issues of race, religion and royalty that may affect public order and national harmony.

The commission issued a legal notice requiring TikTok to explain its moderation failures and take immediate steps to strengthen content controls. It said prior notifications had not produced satisfactory results in removing the material or preventing further spread.

The commission said social media platforms operating in Malaysia must exercise greater responsibility to prevent unlawful and harmful activities. It warned it would continue to take firm and proportionate action to ensure compliance with Malaysian laws and community standards.

The move is part of broader efforts by Malaysian authorities in recent years to increase oversight of digital platforms over issues including harmful content, scams and material deemed threatening to public order. TikTok did not respond to a request for comment.