Slander on social media is a rising concern due to its wide reach and the potential harm it causes. False and damaging information about individuals spread online can lead to severe social and psychological consequences. To address this issue, authorities and social media platforms are collaborating to enforce stricter policies, enhance reporting systems, and legally prosecute those responsible for disseminating slanderous content.
FMT reports that Fahmi Fadzil, the Communications and Digital Minister said that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will take strong measures against individuals spreading slanderous content on social media, particularly during the upcoming state elections. To address this issue, the ministry has conducted meetings with popular social media platforms such as Telegram and TikTok.
Fahmi stated that they had already held discussions with TikTok at the end of last year and early this year. Last week, they also had a meeting with Telegram. According to Fahmi, the cooperation with social media service providers has been highly effective. He further emphasised the importance of good collaboration between law enforcement agencies, the MCMC, and social media service providers to combat slander and prevent misuse of social media.
In addition, Fahmi mentioned that his ministry is considering amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA) to grant the MCMC greater authority in pursuing individuals responsible for disseminating slanderous content on social media. The amendments would also address the prevention of provocations or slanders related to the 3Rs – race, religion, and royalty. Fahmi expressed hope that these amendments would be finalised within this year.
