GEORGE TOWN: The government today reminded netizens that while they were free to give their comments on current issues, such as the novel coronavirus (nCoV) outbreak, they should not break the law.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo said while the government upheld freedom of expression, it remained an offence to spread fake stories or claims.
He said untruths being circulated on the nCoV outbreak in the country had forced the government to draw the line, the same stance it took when it came to matters related to public order and national security.
“Freedom, we have to understand, is not absolute. A line has to be drawn, I think we should understand there are times where the law needs to be enforced.
“People are also asking us why action is not taken on posters of fake news.
“It must be reminded that there is a thin line between an opinion and what have you. And this is where the police will investigate and decide (if action needed to be taken),” he said in a press conference at the Lorong Kulit flea market here today.
Gobind said there was no need for new fake news laws to stem the spread of untruths on social media, as existing laws were sufficient.
Recently, the authorities charged four people aged 24 to 49 from Kedah, Pahang and Melaka for allegedly spreading fake news on social media accounts on the nCoV.
They are being probed under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a maximum jail term of a year or a fine of RM50,000.
Federal police were also reported to be investigating five social media accounts for spreading untruths about the virus.
Earlier, Gobind launched the Information on Wheels project in Penang. The project, initiated by his ministry, uses a van equipped with a loudhailer to broadcast information about the coronavirus to the public. - FMT
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