Malaysian Lawmakers Approve Broader Internet Controls
Malaysian lawmakers vote in favour of expanding government control over the internet. The bill introduces stricter penalties for content violations and grants broad powers to law enforcement. Stakeholder consultations were held during the bill's drafting process.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil defended the decision, stating that the amendments were necessary to combat online threats such as scams, cyber-bullying, paedophilia, and child pornography. Fahmi emphasised that while freedom of speech is acknowledged, restrictions can be imposed for public safety.
The approved bill introduces harsher penalties for content violations and grants extensive powers to law enforcement, including the ability to conduct searches and seizures without a warrant. Service providers may also be held accountable under the law and required to disclose user data to authorities during investigations.
Consultations with various stakeholders were conducted during the drafting process, with over 20 sessions held to gather input on the bill. Malaysia's actions align with a broader trend in Asia, where governments are seeking to regulate online platforms and hold tech giants responsible for illegal content. Officials from Kuala Lumpur to New Delhi and Canberra are exploring ways to manage social media's influence on sensitive political matters.
The bill received a 59-40 vote in favour by the Malaysian House of Representatives after a thorough debate on issues like hate speech definitions and the powers granted to "authorised officers" to act without a warrant. One parliamentarian abstained from voting, raising questions about the scope of authority held by these officers. Opposition party Bersatu's lawmaker Mas Ermieyati Samsudin expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the authorised officer's identity and role.
Responding to queries, Fahmi clarified that the law empowers the minister in charge to designate the authorised officer. The bill passed without amendments and is now set to be presented to the Senate for approval.
Malaysian lawmakers vote in favour of expanding government control over the internet.
The bill introduces stricter penalties for content violations and grants broad powers to law enforcement.
Stakeholder consultations were held during the bill's drafting process.
Source: BANGKOK POST