KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MCMC) and police will review existing standard operating procedures (SOPs) to facilitate reports on cyberbullying.
In a statement today, the MCMC said that synergy with police will also be strengthened to ensure that the initiative yields results.
The commission added that it, along with the Communications Ministry, is planning to host a nationwide tour series to share anti-cyberbullying messages and modules with the public.
Earlier this week, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said Putrajaya is considering amending established laws or introducing new legislation to facilitate immediate action and prevent cyberbullying in the future.
Fahmi also said the government is working towards determining a clearer definition of cyberbullying.
This comes amid the death of local influencer Rajeswary Appahu, fondly known as Esha, who died on July 5 after reportedly facing a month of online bullying.
In its investigation into her death, police recently arrested two individuals under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, Section 233 of the MCMC Act 1998 on improper use of network facilities, and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 for intentionally insulting behaviour.
Police have also confirmed that two TikTok accounts were involved in making vulgar and threatening remarks towards Esha, namely @dulal_brotherss and @alphaquinnsha.
Before her death, Esha lodged a police report at the Dang Wangi police station, detailing the violent threats made against her, including how the @dulal_brothers TikTok account had hosted a livestream where participants made rape and death threats against her. – July 13, 2024