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KUALA LUMPUR, October 6 – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has issued a total of 15 compounds valued at RM700,000 on October 1, 2020 to mobile phone providers for failing to perform identity verification for new prepaid SIM card registrations in 2019.
Violators include Celcom, Maxis, Tone Plus, Tune Talk, U Mobile, and YTL Communications.
According to the MCMC, the compounds were issued because they violate Section 127 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) of 1998.
Under section 242 of the Act, offenders are subject to a fine not exceeding RM 100,000, imprisonment of not more than two years, or both.
The biggest offender is U Mobile and they were slapped with five compounds worth RM 250,000.
Celcom and Tune Talk received three compounds worth RM 150,000 each, while Maxis received two compounds worth RM 100,000.
Both YTL Communications and Tone Plus have a compound each amounting to RM40,000 and RM10,000 respectively.
MCMC cautioned telcos to ensure that all prepaid SIM registrations adhere to the guidelines provided by the commission.
He added that all SIM registrations must be done using an automated platform that is secure and encrypted.
All providers must also ensure that people do not have more than 5 SIM cards in their name.
The commission added that it will not compromise on the matter and will crack down on those who do not comply with the guidelines.
The mandatory identity verification requirement for new prepaid SIMs is aimed at curbing the misuse of prepaid services.
It is also used to address concerns about terrorism and crime.
For Malaysian residents, a MyKad or MyPR card will be required during prepaid registration, while foreigners can use their passports or work permit identification cards.
Original identification must be worn and photocopies are not allowed.
You can learn more about MCMC’s prepaid guidelines here. – SoyaCincau
