Fake news law: Social media providers’ input sought, says Azalina

KUALA LUMPUR: Views from social media platform providers were sought as part of the Government's effort to draft a new law to combat fake news, said Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said a discussion was held with Google, Facebook, YouTube (part of Google), Twitter and the Asia Internet Coalition in Parliament on Monday (March 12).

“The meeting was held as a measure to get more views and input from the main players in this new media sector, in line with the Government's effort to introduce a law on fake news," she said in a statement Tuesday (March 13).

Azalina claimed the discussion received positive reactions from the platform providers, and added that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) was also part of the meeting.

She said the meeting was vital to ensure that the law being drafted is comprehensive and covers all aspects.

“It also is proof that the Government is inclusive in coming up with policies or laws,” said Azalina.

She said a workshop was also held by the special committee on fake news at the Asian International Arbitration Centre Malaysia with relevant government agencies earlier Tuesday.

She said that the law would curb fake news that threatens public order and national security.

“The law drafted will also protect society from becoming victims of fake news. I believe it can curb the global phenomenon of fake news and false information from becoming viral and cancerous to the nation,” she said.

Last Monday (March 5), Azalina said the final draft of the proposed law to curb fake news will be ready in two weeks.

She said a version of the draft was being circulated among ministers and would be presented to Cabinet soon.

The Yang-Di Pertuan Agong also expressed support for legislation to address the spread of fake news and slander on social media in his Royal Address at the opening of Parliament last week.