Cyberbullying encompasses deliberate actions carried out by individuals or organisations through digital communication platforms, with the intention of causing harm to the victim, whether it be anxiety, physical, psychological, economic, or academic in nature.
Such actions include threats to disseminate videos, creation of fake profiles, sending harassing messages, spreading false information or defamation, and making insulting comments.
A recent report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reveals that Malaysia holds the second position in Asia in 2020 when it comes to cyberbullying among youths. This data highlights the growing prominence of cyberbullying as a significant issue within the country.
Malay Mail reports that according to Fahmi Fadzil, the Communications and Digital Minister, the government is intending to fast-track the implementation of laws addressing cyberbullying in order to tackle the escalating issue.
Fahmi stated that authorities are studying similar legislation in other nations to formulate the proposed law.
We are looking at the laws in other countries relating to cyberbullying and see which aspects are appropriate for our country. I had a meeting about this two days ago, and we are planning to expedite the process to enact the law.
Fahmi Fadzil, Communications and Digital Minister
He further emphasised that while it typically takes around two to three years to establish a new law, such as the sexual harassment Act, the government aims to enact the anti-cyberbullying law as quick as possible.
Fahmi underscored the significance of enacting the cyberbullying law, citing the rise in the number of social media users in Malaysia as a crucial factor.
