The controversial amendment to the Evidence Act 1950 is "modern and forward-looking", Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said.
Speaking at the National Press Club Award, Najib said that this is because the amendment protects people from cyber crimes.
"Freedom co-exists with respect. That was why there was an amendment to the Evidence Act.
"It has not been explained enough. It is aimed at protecting people from Internet-based crime like cyberbullying," he said.
Speaking at the National Press Club Award, Najib said that this is because the amendment protects people from cyber crimes."Freedom co-exists with respect. That was why there was an amendment to the Evidence Act.
"It has not been explained enough. It is aimed at protecting people from Internet-based crime like cyberbullying," he said.
Speaking to a room full of reporters, he said that while professional journalists are bound by code of ethics and to report "responsibly", those online may not be so accountable.
"Online users can deploy guerilla tactics using slander and harassment, which can be used under the cloak of anonymity," he said.
The amendment, Section 114A of the Act, had received severe criticism from netizens and civil society, who argue that it shifts burden of proof to the accused.
Among the critics are Barisan National MPs Saifuddin Abdullah and Khairy Jamaluddin and senator Gan Peng Sieu.
The prime minister, who was overseas during the height of the criticism last month, had instructed the cabinet to discuss the matter following the criticism.
However, the government decided not to review the law.
"Online users can deploy guerilla tactics using slander and harassment, which can be used under the cloak of anonymity," he said.
The amendment, Section 114A of the Act, had received severe criticism from netizens and civil society, who argue that it shifts burden of proof to the accused.
Among the critics are Barisan National MPs Saifuddin Abdullah and Khairy Jamaluddin and senator Gan Peng Sieu.
The prime minister, who was overseas during the height of the criticism last month, had instructed the cabinet to discuss the matter following the criticism.
However, the government decided not to review the law.
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