PERAI – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to adopt a zero-compromise approach in tackling cyberbullying, as the government prepares to introduce much stricter anti-cyberbullying laws in Parliament.
This decision comes in response to several high-profile cases that have recently captured national attention.
During a forum at the Generasi Ada Idea (GEN-AI) carnival, Anwar referred to the tragic case of TikTok influencer Rajeswary Appahu, who reportedly took her life on July 5 due to the devastating effects of cyberbullying.
He took aim at factions that invoke “freedom and democracy” to oppose the government’s initiatives aimed at curbing harmful online discourse.
“Freedom means taking care of others’ dignity and values. Freedom is not for you to commit crimes, hurt and insult other people.
“I am responsible to save this country, not the criminals.
“Therefore we will introduce a much stricter cyberbullying laws in the (next) parliament session,” said Anwar at the forum held in the Generasi Ada Idea (GEN-AI) carnival held by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) at Gravitas Business Park, here.
He confirmed that a more stringent law against cyberbullying will be presented in the upcoming parliamentary session, responding to a university student’s inquiry about the government’s strategy for addressing the pervasive issue of cyberbullying on social media.
Anwar reiterated that the MCMC and police have been mandated to take “maximum actions” with no compromises allowed.
He said that “Malaysia is different,” explaining that while the nation champions freedom and justice, it will “never condone any forms of oppression, insults, or abuse.”
On July 18, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil indicated in the Dewan Rakyat that Putrajaya would assess the necessity for a future-proof law addressing cyberbullying incidents.
He noted that this new legislation should adapt to evolving communication mediums and meet contemporary needs, as reported by Bernama.
In a separate discussion, Anwar, who is also the chairman of Pakatan Harapan, suggested that both his coalition and Barisan Nasional could collaborate in the upcoming general elections (GE16) if consensus is achieved on principles of good governance and public policies introduced by the Madani government.
He highlighted that the government’s commitment to good governance has contributed to political stability over the past two years, while the implementation of national policies focused on energy transition, digital transformation, and semiconductor industries has attracted investors.
“If these (policies and good governance) are agreed upon with consensus within the Cabinet, I think it is right that we figure out a way to (extend) the cooperation between PH and BN,” he said, when responding to a question posed by another university student. – – November 2, 2024