Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak has thanked Lim Kit Siang for agreeing to his call on Malaysians to help counter fake news and information.
He also responded to the DAP veteran's question if Salleh and the Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) would make a similar stand on the fake news which targets the opposition.
“The law is clear. If a report is lodged with MCMC, the necessary action would be taken,” he told Malaysiakini.
Despite Lim and him often being at loggerheads, Salleh emphasised that there is nothing personal between the two of them.
“We may have our differences but these are political in nature. We represent our respective parties and coalitions, and we act in their interests. This is the essence of politics,” he said.
However, Salleh, who is also Umno treasurer, stressed that what is of paramount importance is that both of them do not compromise on issues concerning the well-being of the nation.
“Fake news and misinformation have the potential to cause great harm and this must be curbed.
“I thank Lim for expressing support for my call on Malaysians to play a proactive role in combatting this menace,” he added.
In a blog posting this afternoon, Salleh revealed that MCMC had taken action against 3,047 fake accounts on various social media platforms identified between January and September this year.
“All Malaysians are responsible to help defend Malaysia from fake news/accounts which have bad intent, defamatory or seditious in nature. Respect for our diversity and harmony must be strengthened as a Malaysian way of life,” he had said.
In a Twitter posting later, Lim said: “Only time so far I agree with Salleh.”
The DAP veteran also stated that he opposed all fake news, including those against Umno and BN.
“Will Salleh/MCMC oppose all fake news, even those against DAP/Harapan leaders?” he asked.- Mkini
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