The Anwar Ibrahim-led administration is facing increasing criticism over what some have labelled a growing suppression of dissent, with comparisons being drawn to past authoritarian practices. Concerns have intensified following a series of actions against social media users, whistleblowers, and even political figures who expressed disagreement with current policies or decisions.
The controversy stems largely from the government's Mobile Phone Data (MPD) project, which involves the collection of anonymised data from telcos. Despite official assurances about privacy, critics argue that this initiative lacks transparency and public consent, as users have no opt-out mechanism until at least 2026.
Several individuals, including Pahang MCA Youth chief Wong Siew Mun, have come under police scrutiny after publicly opposing the MPD initiative. Wong was questioned on June 18 after a TikTok video she posted raised concerns about surveillance and urged for a parliamentary debate on the matter. She emphasised that such a large-scale data collection effort could erode public trust and violate citizens’ rights.
Further fueling the public’s unease, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently blocked two major Telegram channels—Edisi Siasat and Edisi Khas—accused of sharing content that violated national laws. A court order has since compelled Telegram to comply, effectively silencing one of the most prominent whistleblowing platforms in the country.
The move mirrors the 2015 suppression of Sarawak Report during the 1MDB scandal under former prime minister Najib Razak. Critics say this signals a return to similar tactics aimed at curbing free speech. Former economy minister Rafizi Ramli even highlighted that pro-government social media users are now under investigation, with authorities reportedly visiting their homes.
Although the channels have been shut down, a successor—Edisi Siasat 2.0—briefly gained over 100,000 subscribers before it too was taken down shortly after publishing a critical post involving the communications minister.
Voices within and outside the ruling coalition are raising alarms over what they see as an increasingly repressive environment. The term “kuku besi” (iron fist), once used to describe Najib’s regime, has now resurfaced as critics draw parallels to Anwar’s handling of dissent and media freedom.
The wave of enforcement actions has ignited questions over whether the current government is truly committed to reform—or instead, tightening its grip on public discourse.
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