The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has ordered a temporary ban on access to the Grok artificial intelligence (AI) tool for users in Malaysia, effective today (Jan 11).
In a statement issued today, MCMC said the move followed repeated misuse of Grok to generate pornographic and sexually explicit content.
The commission said the decision was also prompted by the circulation of extremely obscene material, including non-consensual manipulated images involving women and children, despite earlier regulatory actions taken against X Corp. and xAI LLC.
According to MCMC, notices were issued to X Corp. and xAI LLC on Jan 3 and Jan 8, requiring, among other things, the implementation of technical safeguards and effective content moderation measures.
These measures were intended to prevent the generation of AI content that could breach Malaysian laws, including Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
“However, the responses submitted by X Corp. on Jan 7 and Jan 9 focused mainly on user-initiated reporting mechanisms and did not adequately address the inherent risks arising from the design and operation of the AI tool,” MCMC said.
Based on the responses received, the commission concluded that the measures were insufficient to prevent harm or ensure compliance with Malaysian regulations.
MCMC said the temporary ban is a precautionary step while legislative and regulatory processes are ongoing. Access to Grok will remain restricted until effective safeguards are implemented, particularly to prevent content involving women and children.
The commission added that it remains open to engaging with X Corp. and xAI LLC, subject to clear compliance with Malaysian laws.
Members of the public are urged to report harmful online content to MCMC immediately and, where necessary, lodge reports with the Royal Malaysia Police.
