CYBERJAYA: The Communications Ministry will take action against several social media platforms over past incidents of cyberbullying, says Fahmi Fadzil.
The minister expressed his dissatisfaction with how these platforms have addressed the issue.
“I don’t think they particularly care…so, I have had enough. We will send a loud and clear message to these platforms. Stay tuned,” he told the media at the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2024 launch ceremony here on Sunday (July 21).
Fahmi said the decision to take action comes after discussions with three other ministries, namely, the Digital Ministry, the Home Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform).
He also said the ministry was currently collaborating with these ministries to examine three to four specific issues related to the matter.
Fahmi said the collaborative effort aims to update existing laws and ensure their effective implementation.
“We are examining the technology available today, whether it is artificial intelligence (AI) or various social media platforms. We may need to focus on the technical aspects to facilitate investigations and the prosecution process.
“This includes framing the charges. For example, in the case of the late Rajeswary Appahu, also known as Esha, who committed suicide due to alleged cyberbullying from a TikTok live session,” he said.
Fahmi added that he had seen a live TikTok session where some comments were excessively harsh, seemingly encouraging other viewers to behave inappropriately.
“These instances involve not only the perpetrators but also those who propagate such behaviour. It’s about those who engage in the bullying and those who allow and incite others to participate,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said following the retreat with about 2,000 Madani community members this morning, he will convey several proposals to the Finance Ministry regarding the implementation of Budi Madani – a government initiative to ensure that subsidy allocations were targeted towards deserving groups.
“Some members said they need assistance, especially those in Felda or remote areas for expired vehicle road tax.
They require some support. In addition, some gave their views regarding the provisions for Budi Madani, which we have taken note of. We will forward these proposals to the Finance Ministry,” Fahmi said.
The 2024 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang Launch Ceremony, designed as a people’s carnival, took place from 9am to 4.30pm on Sunday with various activities prepared to strengthen the spirit of patriotism among the people in anticipation of the 2024 National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) celebrations.- Bernama
