The upcoming state elections will be happening in six states: Selangor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, and Penang, and it will take place on 12 August 2023. From now until the election day, there will be people trying to spread unverified news online and the government is trying to put a stop to it.
Malay Mail reports that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has actively engaged with nearly all social media platforms operating in Malaysia to address online crimes and misinformation in the upcoming state elections.
According to Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, MCMC has been assisting the platforms in understanding Malaysia’s laws. The ministry has conducted sessions with social media platforms such as Telegram, Meta, and other operators. In terms of enforcement actions related to sensitive issues involving race, religion, and royalty (3R), the matter has been entrusted to the police to take necessary action.
Fahmi emphasised that the police would act impartially on any reported statements made by individuals such as Lim Guan Eng or Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, without favouritism. If anyone is suspected of violating the country’s laws, investigations will be conducted.
Fahmi’s comments were in response to concerns regarding the potential exploitation and amplification of racial and religious sentiments on social media in the lead-up to the state elections.
