Malaysia SMS Laws And Regulations
Malaysia has implemented stringent SMS regulations to combat online fraud and spam. It’s crucial to be aware of these regulations before sending messages to Malaysian numbers.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Strict Content Restrictions: Messages containing hyperlinks, mobile or fixed numbers for call-backs, and requests for personal information (like names, card details, or bank account numbers) are strictly prohibited and will be blocked.
- URL and Phone Number Whitelisting: All messages containing URLs and phone numbers must be whitelisted to avoid being blocked. To whitelist, you’ll need to provide your company details along with a sample of the full URL or phone number.
- Opt-in Policies: Like many countries, Malaysia operates on an opt-in basis, meaning you must have explicit consent from users before sending them SMS messages.
For a detailed breakdown of specific regulations, please refer to the table below. You can also find comprehensive information on the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s website.
Before sending SMS messages to any international destination, please familiarize yourself with the local messaging regulations. All programs must comply with applicable laws in the target country. If you’re unsure about any regulations, please contact our support team for clarification.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| International SMS prefix | +60 |
| General Content Restrictions | • All customers sending SMS traffic to Malaysia must prepend their message content with the price tag “RM0” followed by their Identity/Brand/Company name. The price tag RM0 and brand name will take up characters from the message content. • Religious, adult, racial, and gambling content are not allowed. • A numeric sender ID sending more than 10 SMS messages in quick succession will be considered flooding and may be blocked (i.e., sending more than one message per minute over a 10-minute period). • Messages containing hyperlinks for end-users to click, requests for end-user information, and mobile or fixed numbers provided to call back will be blocked. • All content with URLs and phone numbers must be whitelisted. • URL shorteners cannot be whitelisted. • No URL redirects are allowed – the URL should link directly to a fully visible page. • All URLs to misleading pages will be rejected. |
| Sender ID Regulations | All sender IDs will be overwritten with local short code or long code. |
| Sender ID Documentation Required | N/A |
| Shortcode Availability | N/A |
| Number Portability | Yes |
| Opt-in Requirements | N/A |
| Opt-out Requirements | Yes |
| DND Exists | No |
| Time Restrictions | Yes. Marketing traffic is only allowed between 8 AM – 8 PM |
| Local Traffic | All traffic sent over the local bind must have the brand name inserted in the message content. Failing to do so will deem the traffic as international and will be subject to higher costs and penalties. |
Please note: It is essential to recognize that these regulations can change without notice, and it is the customer’s responsibility to stay up to date with any changes. If you have further questions or need clarification, do not hesitate to contact our support team.
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