The Communications and Digital Ministry has not received any reports on the spread of offensive narratives related to the 3R issues of race, religion, and royalty during the Pulai Parliamentary and Simpang Jeram state by-elections so far.
Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching of the Communications and Digital Ministry stated that the special committee, which includes the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police, is monitoring the situation until the campaign ends.
“We will continue to monitor social media platforms with regard to the 3R issues during the campaign. We received 26 complaints during the state elections last month, which have been referred to the police for further action,” she said.
Teo Nie Ching made these remarks during her visit to the installation site of the Starlink satellite device at Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temon on Saturday, September 2.
She further added that the current social media campaign is not as intense as the state elections.
“This is the challenge for Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional), to attract voters on September 9,” she commented in response to the ‘gloomy’ Johor by-elections compared to the six-state elections.
When asked about the alleged blocking of several portals or websites by the MCMC, Teo Nie Ching stated that the Commission does not block them arbitrarily without a valid reason.
She explained that action is only taken if there are elements of fake news found on the portals.
“We have no intention to restrict anyone’s campaign, but if they involve sensitive 3R issues or fake news that could have a negative impact on society, MCMC must take action,” she asserted.
Teo Nie Ching also emphasized that the Ministry is open to having dialogues with non-governmental organizations to foster a better understanding of the boundaries of freedom of speech and freedom of information. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
