Gobind: No need for new laws to deal with fake news on virus

CORONAVIRUS | There is no need for new anti-fake news law to deal with those who spread unverified and false information regarding the novel coronavirus, said Communications and Multimedia Media Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

"We already have laws to deal with this matter.

"At this stage, we do not need to re-enact new laws to combat fake news," he said after visiting the Lorong Kulit Food Court in Dato Keramat, Penang, today.

At a press conference later, Gobind confirmed that his ministry has received many reports about fake news being spread via social media.

However, he said, the police would investigate and take action against those who threatened public order and national security.

"The MCMC will assist in identifying relevant information upon the police's request.

"It is beyond me as a minister, as the police are the enforcers," Gobind said.

He was at the ministry initiated programme dubbed "Info on Wheels" to distribute leaflets on the Wuhan disease, while up-to-date information on government action on the situation is being broadcasted through loudspeakers on vans in public places such as markets and hawker centres.

Gobind will also be visiting Balik Pulau in the afternoon.

In October last year, the Dewan Rakyat passed a bill to repeal the Anti-Fake News Act 2018. 

So far eight persons have been confirmed infected with the deadly virus, while 81 people, including 41 Malaysians, have tested negative for the novel coronavirus in Malaysia.

In China, the Wuhan virus has killed 170 people and Beijing has placed the province and surrounding Hubei in a lockdown.

Malaysia has temporarily suspended the entry of all Chinese nationals from Wuhan and Hubei in an effort to limit the number of cases in the country.

On a question whether action against those who spread false news may constitute suppression of freedom of speech, Gobind said such freedom is not absolute.

"We have to draw a line when such information creates panic, threatens public disorder or national security," he added.

On regular Joes posting their concerns in social media, Gobind said: "Action is not taken on places like that."

Since Jan 25, Bernama has published 149 articles, 42 news reports, 30 infographics and six videos related to the Wuhan virus.

RTM has broadcasted 137 news, 10 infographics, and 42 videos on the virus during this period.

From Jan 27 to 29, Gobind said, the Information Department has conducted 180 activities nationwide, with four programmes daily in all states.

Accompanying Gobind at the event were Penang executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, MCMC secretariat deputy chief Shakib Ahmad Shakir and Information Department head Roselindawati Abdul Rahman. - Mkini