Keeping it clean and fair

PETALING JAYA: With six state elections on the horizon, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has announced that the police force is intensifying efforts to track down and combat 3R-sensitive posts and fake news on social media. “We do not care if it is the work of the common man or politicians, we will investigate and take stern action if necessary on those stoking hate on race, religion and royalty,” the top cop reiterated. Acknowledging recent investigations into two politicians over their alleged racially sensitive statements, Razarudin stated that the police have not detected a surge in inflammatory and sensitive posts on social media in relation to the upcoming state polls. He emphasized that the police will utilize provisions under the Sedition Act, Penal Code, and Communications and Multimedia Act to address 3R-sensitive offenses and maintain peace and harmony in the country, particularly during the elections.

In GEORGE TOWN, the caretaker Penang state government will be closely monitoring hate speech on social media in the lead-up to the state election. Caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the importance of social media as a platform to counter fake news and irresponsible propaganda. He suggested that each caretaker assemblyman should have a team to monitor and counter fake news or dirty tactics employed by the opposition on social media. Chow reminded all politicians to ensure a clean and positive campaign for the state election, focusing on policies, future plans, and how the people can contribute towards these goals. Despite recognizing the value of social media, Chow expressed that traditional methods like house-to-house visits and campaign speeches are still effective, especially in appealing to fence sitters. Nevertheless, the caretaker state government will also target the younger generation through social media, particularly first-time voters and the Undi18 group.

Perikatan Nasional has announced its plans to make use of social media, including platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp, and WeChat, to engage with young voters in the upcoming elections. While physical ceramah (campaign speeches) will be scaled down, with the exception of a “mega ceramah” on the eve of polling, Penang Perikatan deputy chairman Oh Tong Keong, who is also Penang Gerakan chief, emphasized Perikatan’s commitment to contesting all 40 state seats in Penang, with Gerakan standing in 19.

In KUALA LUMPUR, Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching issued a reminder to fellow politicians to refrain from spreading fake news leading up to the polling day on August 12. Teo, the DAP national publicity secretary, warned of the high likelihood of inaccurate and false information circulating during the election period. Stressing the importance of upholding principles and not being a source of misinformation, she urged all politicians to remember that they are Malaysians and called for unity in the face of fake news. Teo also appealed to Malaysians to join the fight against fake news, emphasizing the need to prevent lasting harm to national unity and maintain strong relationships despite differences of opinion.