KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) only takes action against websites when found to contain elements of fake news, said Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching.
She added that MCMC does not arbitrarily block websites without reason.
“We have no intention to stop anyone’s campaign, but if they touch on sensitive 3R (race, religion, royalty) issues or fake news which could have a negative impact on the society, MCMC must act upon it,” she was quoted as saying by Bernama.
She added that her ministry is prepared to have dialogues with non-governmental organisations towards a better understanding of the boundaries of freedom of speech and freedom of information.
She was speaking to reporters after visiting the installation site of the Starlink satellite device at Kg Orang Asli Sg Temon, Johor Baru today.
Meanwhile, Teo said the ministry has not received any reports on the spread of offensive narratives related to the 3R issues, particularly on social media, during the Pulai parliamentary and Simpang Jeram state by-elections so far.
She added that MCMC and the police will continue to monitor the situation until the campaign ends
“We will continue to monitor social media platforms with regard to the 3R issues during the campaign. We received 26 complaints during the state elections (last month), which have been referred to the police for further action.”
Teo said the social media campaigns for the two by-elections are lukewarm compared to the state elections.
MCMC yesterday reiterated that action taken against irresponsible media outlets is not to stifle freedom of the press but to ensure information dissemination is done responsibly and without the spread of slander or misinformation.
It added that it operates under the provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998) as the regulatory body for the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia. – September 2, 2023
Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching has said that the ministry is prepared to have dialogues with non-governmental organisations towards a better understanding of the boundaries of freedom of speech and freedom of information. – September 2, 2023