Malaysia has launched a 45-day public consultation on a proposed Gaming Sub-Code covering loot boxes, gacha mechanics, in-game spending and child safety. Indeed, authorities seek stronger protections for younger players.
The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF) opened the nationwide consultation, with feedback accepted until October 24, 2026.
Loot Boxes and In-Game Spending Under Review
The proposed rules would establish sector-specific standards for game developers, publishers, distributors, platforms and other gaming service providers. These are providers whose products are accessible in Malaysia.
Key areas include age classification, age assurance, parental controls, in-game purchases, virtual currencies, loot boxes, gacha mechanics, user-generated content and content moderation.
The consultation specifically asks how age should affect a player’s gaming experience. Moreover, it asks whether parental controls are sufficiently accessible. It also asks how clearly games explain virtual currencies and chance-based rewards.
Loot boxes and gacha systems are receiving particular attention because players may spend real money for an opportunity to receive a virtual item. This creates concerns similar to those surrounding gambling mechanics.
Stronger Protections for Young Players
The draft also addresses bullying, harassment, reporting mechanisms and safeguards for younger esports participants.
CMCF said modern games increasingly combine entertainment, social interaction and digital commerce. As a result, children are exposed to spending, interactions with strangers and persuasive game design.
The proposed framework was developed with input from game publishers, technology companies, esports stakeholders, academics, civil society organisations and child-safety advocates.
Participants included representatives connected to platforms and titles such as Roblox, Xbox, PlayStation, Google Play Store, Minecraft, PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang.
Industry Invited to Submit Feedback
CMCF Chairman Datuk Rafiq Razali said safeguards must evolve alongside gaming, particularly as games increasingly combine social and commercial features.
Esports stakeholders also supported clearer standards. Impact Integrated CEO Ahmed Faris bin Amir said establishing safeguards while Malaysia’s esports sector continues to grow could help prevent poor practices from becoming entrenched.
CMCF said gamers, parents, publishers, consumer groups and other stakeholders can submit feedback during the consultation or request a dedicated town hall session.
Following the October 24 deadline, CMCF will review the submissions before finalising the Gaming Sub-Code. This document is intended to operate alongside Malaysia’s existing content code and other applicable laws.
