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KUALA LUMPUR: Astro Malaysia Holding Berhad (Astro) in close collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) are intensifying efforts to protect Malaysian families from the growing risks posed by illegal steaming devices (ISDs).
A recent independent study found that nearly all ISD apps contain malware, spyware, or riskware. These apps often request excessive permissions, such as access to system files, network interfaces, video and audio—potentially enabling them to record conversations, steal credentials and monitor household activity. This demonstrates that the use of ISDs is not just a copyright issue and a serious offence under Malaysian law, but a direct threat to family safety and privacy.
Astro supports the government’s enforcement efforts to ensure a safe and lawful digital entertainment environment for all Malaysians. Since 2021 to October 2025, authorities have carried out 52 enforcement raids nationwide, seized a total of 508 ISD boxes and charged 33 individuals under Section 43AA (1) of the Copyright Act 1987, with 15 more individuals currently being prosecuted. To date, courts have imposed fines totallingRM656,500 on convicted offenders.
The breakdown of enforcement actions is as follows:
2021: 4 raids | 47 ISDs seized | 4 individuals convicted | RM59,500 in fines
2022: 6 raids | 61 ISDs seized | 6 individuals convicted | RM132,000 in fines
2023: 9 raids | 28 ISDs seized | 7 individuals convicted, 2 pending | RM97,000 in fines
2024: 13 raids | 311 ISDs seized | 12 individuals convicted |RM238,00 in fines
2025 (as of October): 20 raids | 61 ISDs seized | 4 individuals convicted, 14 pending | RM130,000 in fines.
In addition to criminal enforcement, Astro has pursued civil legal action against companies involved in the sale of ISDs. These actions serve as strong deterrent and reinforce the broader goal of protection Malaysian families from cybersecurity threats and unlawful digital practices. From 2021 and October 2025, Astro initiated 15 civil cases, with eight successfully resolved, resulting in court-awarded damages that help fund further enforcement and awareness efforts. The remaining seven cases are on going.
Civil action summary:
2021: 4 cases | RM190,000 awarded
2022: 2 cases | RM45,000 awarded
2023: 1 case | RM15,000 awarded
2024: 2 cases | RM35,000 awarded (1 case pending, Defendant filed application at Court of Appeal)
2025 (as of October): 2 cases | RM60,000 awarded (4 ongoing)
“Astro is committed to protecting Malaysian families by offering safe, legal access to the best in entertainment through Astro and sooka. When we choose legal platforms, we not only enjoy peace of mind, we also support local jobs, nurture our creative talents, and help grow Malaysia’s digital economy. Together, let’s build a safer, brighter digital future for all,” said Euan Smith, Group Chief Executive Officer of Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad.
Astro One and sooka embody Astro’s commitment to providing safe, legal access to premium content while supporting Malaysia’s creative industry. Plans start from RM49.99/month for Astro One and RM13.90/month for sooka, giving Malaysians secure access to entertainment without the risks of illegal streaming.
Astro will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies, regulators and industry partners to ensure a safe, fair and lawful digital entertainment environment for all Malaysians. Astro strongly urge the public to avoid using illegal streaming devices and to report suspected piracy activities to authorities. Through collaboration and robust enforcement, Astro will continue to defend Malaysia’s creative industry, uphold fair competition, and support a safer, more sustainable digital ecosystem for everyone.
