Why is Putrajaya backing down on MCMC’s DNS redirection plan? Here’s what we know so far
After days of controversy, Putrajaya has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to suspend its plan requiring all internet service providers (ISPs) to implement public domain name system (DNS) redirection by September 30.
(MMO) – According to a Bernama report, the directive was issued by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who had previously defended the initiative.
Earlier, the plan sparked discussions on social network site Reddit with some comparing the DNS redirection order to China’s great firewall.
The order required all ISPs to use public DNS redirection by the end of the month.
Here are some key points that were behind the implementation and what led to its sudden halt.
Why did MCMC propose the DNS redirection?
The MCMC sought to implement DNS redirection as part of its efforts to curb illegal activities online.
The commission argued that this measure was necessary to maintain social harmony and security.
However, this raised concerns about finding the right balance between public safety and preserving freedom of speech and access to information.
What sparked the move?
It was earlier reported that a research and advocacy centre’s website was being redirected despite not having any malicious content.
According to the report, the health think tank Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy said the move caused problems with access to its website.
Some internet users also took to social media to complain, claiming that the DNS redirection blocked access to a game site.