KULAI – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), in collaboration with social media platforms, removed 1,454 pieces of content touching on issues of race, religion and royalty (3R) between January and March this year.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said that of the total, hate speech related to religion was the highest at 727, followed by racial issues (588) and the royal institution (139).
“Last year, MCMC removed a total of 1,633 3R-related content.
“In just the first three months of this year, 1,454 3R-related posts have been taken down – which is very concerning,” she told reporters during a visit to SJKC Sawit here today.
Teo, who is also Kulai MP, said the breakdown statistics showed that the highest number of 3R-related contents were detected through Facebook with 731, followed by TikTok (705), X (nine), YouTube (five), and Telegram (four).
The Wanita DAP chief also expressed concerns that these cases would increase next month ahead of the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election on May 11.
“Usually, during elections such as general elections, state elections, or by-elections, 3R-related are more frequently raised.
“Hopefully, this won’t happen for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election,” she said.
“Some account owners are believed to be operating fake accounts or ‘invisible hands’ deliberately inciting anger and hatred by uploading 3R-related content,” she said.
Therefore, she advised the public to be wise users and not be influenced by 3R issues manipulated by parties involved.
Regarding the meeting between the Communications Ministry and MCMC with conglomerate Meta Platforms Inc tomorrow, she said it aimed to discuss online safety issues.
She said the discussion would include 3R issues and the fact that those under 13 should not be allowed to open accounts on social media platforms. – April 7, 2024