These actions are against a backdrop of criticism towards Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's government for potentially undermining free speech, despite earlier commitments to reform. The government has defended its position, focusing on eliminating posts it deems provocative and touching on sensitive issues like race, religion, and the monarchy. This has included content criticizing the government, as well as posts related to illegal activities such as gambling and financial scams.

Despite the rise in content removal, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil asserts the regulator acts on public complaints, denying targeting posts critical of him. With race and religion being sensitive topics in Malaysia, the government also condemned Meta and TikTok for insufficiently policing their platforms, even threatening legal action against Meta before reaching a resolution through discussions.

Free speech advocates like Article 19 have condemned the government's increased censorship efforts, stating that criticism of the government should not be silenced and warning of the potential threat to free expression.