Minister To Tackle Cyberbullying: Major Meeting With Social Media Giants Planned

17 Jul 2024 • 9:00 AM MYT
Evon Anak Jerim
Evon Anak Jerim

An admin manager by profession and a consultant. Passionate about writing.

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Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil is set to convene a crucial meeting with all social media platform providers in Malaysia at the end of this month to address the escalating issue of cyberbullying.

Fahmi stated that the Communications Ministry is dissatisfied with the current commitment shown by these platform providers in managing cyberbullying complaints. He highlighted TikTok's inadequate response as particularly concerning, noting that the platform seems to take the issue too lightly.

“This meeting will also involve the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the Attorney General’s Chambers, and other stakeholders to thoroughly review and address this issue based on the complaints we have received,” Fahmi explained. “We seek comprehensive changes and expect platform providers to act responsibly and in accordance with Malaysian laws. Given the substantial profits they earn from advertising, they are obligated to address complaints appropriately.”

Fahmi's comments came during his visit to the Malaysian Film Directors Association (FDAM) Convention and his inspection of film production facilities at the Merdeka Finas Studio Complex in Ampang. FDAM chairman Datuk Afdlin Shauki and Malaysian Artistes Association (Seniman) president Rozaidi Jamil, also known as Zed Zaidi, were present at the event.

The urgency of this issue has been underscored by a recent viral case involving a TikTok influencer who allegedly committed suicide due to cyberbullying. Fahmi confirmed that the matter is under police investigation. “The influencer had previously lodged a complaint with the MCMC, but it was related to another issue and not the cyberbullying case purported to have contributed to her death,” he clarified. “Nonetheless, such incidents highlight the critical need for the ministry and the government to scrutinize and monitor social media content and platform management.”

Fahmi reiterated the government's commitment to enhancing online safety, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and families. This includes tackling issues such as fraud, sexual offenses, online gambling, and cyberbullying. He emphasized that protecting users from harmful online content is a top priority and that the upcoming meeting aims to ensure social media platforms take their responsibilities seriously.

The Ministry of Communications and Multimedia will continue to push for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure that social media platforms adhere to Malaysian laws and provide a safer online environment for all users. The collaboration between various stakeholders is expected to bring about significant improvements in the way cyberbullying and other online threats are managed, ensuring a more secure digital space for everyone.


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