Malaysia on Sunday temporarily blocked access to Grok, joining a growing number of countries taking action against the generative artificial intelligence tool after it enabled users to create and share sexualised images.
The chatbot is developed by xAI, founded by Elon Musk, and is integrated into the social media platform X. On Thursday, xAI said it would limit image generation and editing features to paying subscribers as it worked to address safeguard failures that allowed the creation of sexualised content, often without the consent of those depicted.
Malaysia’s move follows a similar step by Indonesia, which on Saturday became the first country to temporarily deny access to Grok.
In a statement, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said it decided to restrict access after repeated misuse of the tool to generate “obscene, sexually explicit, indecent, grossly offensive, and non-consensual manipulated images,” including content involving women and minors.
The regulator said it had issued notices to X and xAI earlier this month demanding stronger technical and moderation safeguards. However, it said the responses relied mainly on user-initiated reporting mechanisms and failed to address risks stemming from the design and operation of the AI tools.
“MCMC considers this insufficient to prevent harm or ensure legal compliance,” it said.
MCMC added that access to Grok would remain restricted until effective safeguards were implemented, while noting it was open to further engagement with the companies.
xAI replied to a Reuters request for comment with an automated message saying “Legacy Media Lies.” X did not immediately respond.
Muslim-majority Malaysia has strict laws governing online content, including bans on obscene and pornographic material, and has stepped up scrutiny of internet platforms in recent years amid concerns over rising harmful content. The government is also considering barring users under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms.
