Minister: We defend free speech, but there are lines that can't be crossed

 

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has given his assurance that the government will defend the right to free speech.

However, he said, there are lines that can't be crossed and that doing so will have consequences.

"We (the government), and I, will protect the right to free speech, but let's not engage in slander or make unfounded allegations.

"Let it be that whatever we say has a basis, and can be defended, including in court," Fahmi (above) said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

He was responding to a question on whether the government would restrict political speech on social media, such as Perikatan Nasional chief Muhyiddin Yassin's allegation that the 15th general election was a big lie.

Fahmi declined to comment on Muhyiddin's remarks directly, saying he had not had the time to read them.

On the regulation of free speech online, Fahmi said there are already many restrictions in place, even in the United States, on content advocating violence.

"If a mass shooter or killer does a live stream on social media, is that free speech?" he asked.

He said that his ministry, together with the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the police, would stay vigilant on social media to ensure boundaries set by the law are not crossed.

Fahmi, who is the PKR information chief, had taken a hardline on attacks against Anwar Ibrahim - such as allegations that he is an Israeli agent - deeming them slanderous and calling for police action on such matters.

On whether the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) would be amended, the minister said several aspects of the law were being reviewed.

However, he said he would only make any relevant announcement once the cabinet has approved any changes.

Section 233 of the CMA, on “improper use of network facilities”, has often been criticised for being vague and open to abuse by authorities against critics on social media.

On the efforts to address cyberbullying, Fahmi said he is committed to making social media a more conducive environment as such harassment can be detrimental to mental health.

However, he said, at times one should take the bullying in stride.

Fahmi said he too has been a "victim" of cyberbullying, citing a meme of him answering a phone call from the Prime Minister's Office during a press conference.

"Thanks to all the cyberbullies for helping to promote me," he said with a smile. - Mkini