PARLIAMENT | A DAP MP has called for the government to consider amending Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, saying the section is too broad and that people were silenced for voicing their opinions on the internet.
Syahredzan Johan (Pakatan Harapan-Bangi) said that this law can be used, and has been used, by those who have held the reins of power.
“With social media, people can voice their opinions and criticisms. Sometimes that's the only way for people to express what’s in their hearts.
“Unfortunately, existing laws allow the voice of the people to be silenced by those in power just because they might not like the people’s opinions,” he said while debating the royal address in Dewan Rakyat today.
Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act outlines the prohibited actions of using communication networks to transmit offensive or annoying content to other people.
If violated, the offender could face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to RM50,000, or both, if found guilty.
The Bangi MP, however, did state that the section should not be removed entirely as a borderline exists between personal opinion and slander.
“There are more provisions (in Section 233) that are still needed but some other provisions must be revised and amended.
“This does not mean that freedom is unlimited. Ensuring that people can speak is not legalising expressions that can threaten the harmony of society,” he concluded.
Act against cyberbullies
Earlier at the Dewan Rakyat, Siti Mastura Mohammad (Perikatan Nasional-Kepala Batas) asked if the Communications and Digital Ministry would be taking any action towards cyberbullies and online exploiters.
“What is the extent of the investigation and actions recorded by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)?” she asked.
She then mentioned that three female social media influencers were attacked online for showing support towards PN during the 15th general election campaign period.
“Even though the women were openly showing their support for PN on TikTok, I do not think it is right that they were body-shamed, sexualised and had their personal information leaked.
“This is a strong case of a double standard,” the MP lamented.
Siti Mastura added that women were constantly being exploited on social media, especially for online advertisements.
She also said that women were often subjected to sexual and obscene comments from viewers on the video-sharing platform TikTok.
“We often see reports of cyberbullying on social media, where personal information was leaked. Obscene and body-shaming comments were also published.
“What are the government's efforts to curb such online harassment?” Siti Mastura asked. - Mkini
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