Fahmi wants talks with TikTok to assist media to monetise livestreams

KUALA LUMPUR: The Communications Ministry plans to hold discussions with TikTok on enabling Malaysian media organisations to monetise their livestream content.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the issue had been repeatedly raised during his engagements with chief editors, and that he was prepared to engage with TikTok on ways to support media organisations in Malaysia.

He said media outlets should be able to generate revenue from audiences drawn to their official platforms.

“Many media friends have asked why they are unable to monetise their livestreams.

“I would like to convey a message from the chief editors to TikTok Malaysia’s head of public policy, please give this matter some consideration.

“Media organisations feel there is a need for them to find ways to generate some income from their livestreams and content, which I believe are of very high quality,” he said at the closing ceremony of the Youth Festival held in conjunction with the 2026 National Youth Day celebration for the Federal Territories here today.

Speaking to reporters later, Fahmi said the concern extended beyond TikTok, as many social media platforms benefited from content produced by media organisations and official media accounts.

“However, on certain platforms such as TikTok, chief editors have said that they are unable to monetise or generate revenue (from their content).

“So I am requesting, and I am prepared, to hold discussions with TikTok, to see what can be done to assist media organisations in Malaysia.

“If media outlets conduct livestreams that attract tens or even hundreds of thousands of viewers through their official accounts, but viewers are unable to send gifts, despite tuning in because of the media brand itself, then there should be some form of return from platforms such as TikTok,” he said.

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المصدر: New Straits Times