The MCMC has confirmed that social activist Arumugam Dorasamy’s Facebook account has been blocked from access for internet users in Malaysia.
In an email response to Malaysiakini, MCMC claimed that this was due to the repeated publication of harmful content touching on racial and religious sensitivities, which has the potential to affect societal harmony and public order.
“The action taken by MCMC is based on the presence of harmful elements in the content published and not due to the individual’s status as an activist,” it said.
However, it clarified that the ban does not involve all social media accounts belonging to the activist, better known as Arun.
“He also has other social media accounts that are accessible and are not subject to any action by MCMC because the content published through those accounts is not found to meet the threshold for regulatory action,” it said.
The MCMC added that it does not determine the type of action taken by social media service providers, including whether restrictions are imposed on specific content or access to the poster’s account, as it is subject to the providers’ policies and enforcement mechanisms.
Arun previously told Malaysiakini that his Facebook account had been blocked by MCMC since March, and could only be accessed by users from abroad.
“I have written a letter to MCMC, but there has been no response,” he told Malaysiakini.
A previous check by Malaysiakini found that Arun’s Facebook post regarding a press conference invitation on an MACC report against Malacca police chief Dzulkhairi Mukhtar was no longer accessible.
The report was related to a shooting case in Durian Tunggal, Malacca, which caused the deaths of three men.
Arun is known for his involvement in the M Indira Gandhi case - a custody dispute involving the unilateral conversion to Islam of Indira’s three children and the abduction of her youngest daughter by her ex-husband, who is still on the run.
On March 17, 2026, Arun was charged at the Jawi magistrate’s court in Penang with making statements allegedly intended to cause public unrest under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code.
The charge stemmed from a video uploaded on Instagram on March 12, 2025, which allegedly called on Hindu organisations to hold a protest against independent preacher Zamri Vinoth.
‘Free speech must be responsible, legal’
Commenting further, MCMC said it always respects and protects the right to freedom of speech as enshrined under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution.
“Nevertheless, the right must be exercised with full responsibility and is subject to the boundaries of the law, public order, and national interest.
“In exercising its regulatory functions against harmful online content, MCMC takes a balanced approach and acts based on reports received as well as the legal provisions in force.
“As explained, MCMC did not issue any specific directive or request to take down the press conference invitation poster referred to.
“Any action taken by MCMC is based on the harmful content reported and is not intended to restrict access to legitimate information or media reporting activities,” MCMC said. - FMT
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