Internet Blackout Day on Aug 14

PETALING JAYA - August 14 has been declared as Internet Blackout Day by the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ).

In a statement, CIJ said it is a bid against a recently passed law, whereby internet users are presumed guilty for content posted through their sites, registered networks or data processing devices.

On that day, internet users who visit participating websites will be met with a pop-up window detailing information on the campaign, but will still be able to access the website, CIJ executive officer Masjaliza Hamzah said.

“Images from the CIJ website and Facebook page can also be downloaded while users can also change their profile pictures to black for the day.

“The day aims to create awareness among Malaysians on the recently passed Evidence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 2012, which will have a negative impact on freedom of expression online,” she said.

She urged netizens to call on the government to withdraw the amendment which saw the insertion of Section 114a of the Act that states an internet user is deemed the publisher of any online content unless proven otherwise.

KL Bar Information Technology Committee co-chairman Foong Cheng Leong told theSun it is timely to highlight the effects of the law as the awareness level is still low.

“This is an opportunity for internet users to make a stand on this law,” he said, adding that it was not too late.

Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) executive director Nalini E said Suaram supported the awareness campaign to pressure the government to remove Section 114a.

“The section is unnecessary and can be misused against anyone, and it also goes against the fundamental principle that one is innocent until proven guilty,” she said when contacted.

-thesundaily