Legal steps are currently being examined to limit the availability of LGBTQ+ dating apps Grindr and Blued on app stores, the Dewan Rakyat has been informed.
The Communications Ministry said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is assessing the necessary steps. However, as of now, the MCMC has not received any formal request to remove the same-sex dating applications from mobile app distribution platforms.
Access to same-sex dating apps already blocked by MCMC
The ministry added that the MCMC has already blocked access to the related sites.
MCMC does not have direct control to regulate apps on app stores
It also explained that regulation of apps on platforms such as Google Play and the Apple App Store falls under the policies and guidelines set by the respective platform operators, as both applications are owned by foreign companies based outside Malaysia.
“Control over applications on platforms such as Google Play and Apple Store is subject to regulations and policies set by the said platform providers, since both applications are owned by foreign companies operating outside of Malaysia.”
– MCMC, written parliamentary reply
The ministry stressed that the MCMC remains committed to ensuring that Malaysia’s online environment is free from content that breaches local laws.
Malay Mail reported that action is taken against content or app features that violate regulations, including material deemed obscene or immoral, as well as content involving exploitation, abuse, scams, child endangerment, or threats to public safety.
“This includes those that spread lewd or immoral content, exploitation, abuse, scams, exploiting children or threats towards public safety.”
– MCMC, written parliamentary reply
The MCMC may apply for the removal or blocking of such content, after which relevant information will be forwarded to enforcement authorities, including the police, for further investigation.
The ministry was responding in a written parliamentary reply on Wednesday (Feb 25) to Nurul Amin Hamid (PN–Padang Terap), who had asked whether the MCMC would collaborate with app store operators to block downloads of same-sex dating apps such as Grindr, Blued, and Growlr.
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