PANews reported on December 26 that according to a statement issued by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Telegram and WeChat have begun the license application process required to operate in Malaysia. MCMC recognized the two companies and urged other service providers to complete the application process by December 31, 2024 to comply with relevant regulations that will take effect on January 1, 2025. The new regulations are aimed at improving network security, protecting users and combating harmful content. Service providers that fail to comply will face regulatory issues, and MCMC said it will assist qualified providers to successfully complete the application process.