Malaysia urged to tighten rules on unqualified influencers
The growing presence of “instant experts” on social media is blurring the line between fact and opinion.
SHAH ALAM - Experts warn that the rising number of influencers offering opinions beyond their expertise is putting Malaysians at risk of misinformation, prompting renewed calls for mandatory qualifications in professional content.
Malaysia is being urged to introduce compulsory educational credentials or certification for influencers who discuss professional topics such as religion, law, finance and health, in an effort to protect the public from misleading information.
Solicitor and advocate Nor Zabetha Muhamad said the trend of influencers giving commentary outside their expertise has become increasingly concerning.
“Many rely only on internet searches, general readings or artificial intelligence and their views are followed by audiences as though they were official guidance,” she said.
She cited past incidents where unqualified individuals gave incorrect legal advice, adding that such misinformation could lead to financial losses, religious confusion or health risks.
She warned that the growing presence of “instant experts” on social media is blurring the line between fact and opinion.
“If left unchecked, the public will be confused between facts and opinions, ultimately trusting dangerous information. This is why regulating unqualified influencers is essential,” she said.
Zabetha added that qualified professionals go through years of study, training and experience, unlike unverified influencers whose views are based on spontaneous opinions.
Crime analyst Kamal Affandi Hashim said many influencers advising on complex matters do not have valid licences or certificates. He pointed out cases of self-proclaimed ‘coaches’ discussing forex and investment without proper qualifications.
“These unqualified individuals usually fall into the third category, which is no qualification, no experience and no recognition… Sounds nice but useless. Listen if you want, but don’t believe it,” he said.
He noted that programmes offered by the Department of Skills Development can help individuals obtain proper certification, while licensed professionals are regulated under recognised standards.
Financial influencers in Malaysia have been barred from giving unlicensed investment advice since Nov 1, with offenders facing penalties of up to RM10 million or 10 years’ jail or both.
Human resources influencer Ku Sim Ling, known as AuntyHR on social media, agreed that those offering professional advice should have relevant backgrounds.
“If you issue advice as a professional, your background should support that information,” she said.
However, she cautioned that making certification mandatory for all influencers could curtail creativity in entertainment or parody content.
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