Anti-Fake News Bill 2018 passed in Dewan Rakyat

KUALA LUMPUR: The Anti-Fake News Bill 2018 was passed with two amendments during the committee stage at the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (April 2).

The two amendments were replacing the word ""knowingly" with "maliciously" in clause four and reducing the punishment in clause five from the maximum 10 years' jail to six years.

The controversial Bill was passed without any bloc voting.

Earlier during the policy stage, a bloc voting was called by the Opposition but saw 123 voting for the Bill with 64 against it.

According to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, the Bill was to safeguard everyone, ensure public order and national security.

The Bill will be presented to the Dewan Negara to be debated. Once passed, it will be sent to the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong for the Royal Assent.