THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has warned users against uploading or share any content of hateful views involving the 3R elements of racism, religion and royal Institutions in their social media and messaging applications.
MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din said the warning is made following several recent incidents involving 3R elements that are feared to have adverse effect on public order and harmony in the country.
“Hateful speech refers to words of speech or pictures that accuse, demean the value of an individual along racial, ethnic, religious or nationality lines,” he pointed out in a statement. “Accordingly, MCMC will continue to monitor and curb the spread of unauthentic information and distasteful statements containing the 3R elements.”
Added Salim: “Any sharing of false, distasteful and threatening content is an offense under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 which if convicted can subject an offender to a maximum fine of RM50,000 or one-year jail or both.”
He further noted that MCMC shall undertake enforcement action alongside the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) against those involved in accordance with existing legal provisions in order to protect order and the interests of the society.
“Administrator of online news portals, social media and messaging applications are urged to use their editorial authority to manage comments by netizens on their platform,” noted Salim. “Social media platform providers are asked to be more responsible by taking measures to delete contents which are provocative and dangerous when detected.”
He further urged anyone who comes across contents with elements of incitement, provocation or insult against religion, race and royal institutions to immediately report the incident to MCMC through the MCMC complaints portal at https://aduan.skmm.gov.my/; complaint line at 1800-188-030; WhatsApp at 016-2206 262 or e-mail at [email protected].
“Likewise, the people can also channel information or report fake news through the https://sebenarnya.my/salur/ link,” added MCMC. – March 19, 2023
