KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reiterated that action taken by the commission against irresponsible media outlets is not to stifle freedom of the press but to ensure information dissemination is done responsibly and without the spread of slander or misinformation.
MCMC in a statement tonight said that it operates under the provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998) as the regulatory body for the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia.
“One of MCMC’s key national policy objectives is to provide the people of Malaysia protection from the adverse effect of online harm, including misinformation and hate speech, as well as safeguarding integrity of constitutional monarch and democratic institutions with reverence and respect from any attempts to incite hatred or contempt,” it said.
The MCMC said this in response to Reporters Without Borders (RSF) open statement titled ‘RSF denounces arbitrary suspension of news websites critical of the government’ yesterday.
The commission said one of its key responsibilities is also to prevent the misuse of online platforms for committing offences under Malaysian law.
“With the increasing prevalence of online information, there has been a rise in irresponsible and inaccurate reporting.
“Some news outlets have been found intentionally spreading misleading information or publishing inaccurate content, which can harm the harmony enjoyed by the community.
“To address these issues, MCMC has the authority and duty to take regulatory action against the spread of fake, offensive and menacing content,” it said.
The commission said it is open to dialogue and regularly engages with senior editors and journalists to address concerns and issues related to freedom of expression, while also aiming to work hand in hand with the media fraternity to combat the rise of misinformation and malicious disinformation. — September 1, 2023