PUTRAJAYA: Telecommunications companies could face higher fines under the proposed amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He said the review on the Act was aimed at enhancing the quality of services for consumers.
"The ministry will study the technical aspects and the value (of penalties) that can be enhanced.
"We've received complaints about delays in the delivery of service by the telcos and we want to address that," said Fahmi, who is also the unity government's spokesman in a press conference today.
He said the review of the Act would focus primarily on the business sector, the penalties for standards and directive violations, and technical matters.
Fahmi said the ministry would solicit the opinions of industry participants, stakeholders, and others regarding the matter.
He expressed hope that the enhanced penalties would reflect the severity of the offences and would not be taken lightly.
"This is the continuation of the (cabinet's decision) around August 2022, prior to the dissolution of parliament and it has today principally agreed to review the Act in looking at aspects that could be enhanced and strengthened.
"For example, issues involving Section 233, where many members of parliament have firm stance on it and question whether the Act is strong enough."
