Fahmi to address social media misinformation

PUTRAJAYA: Discussions will be held with representatives from social media platforms to discuss misinformation and content deemed as extreme, says Fahmi Fadzil.

The Digital Communications Minister said that he was concerned about the spread of fake news and the issue was also raised by ministers at the Cabinet meeting. “I believe after having meetings with a few social media platforms including TikTok, perhaps I will be able to understand the issue better in terms of regulatory framework,” he said after clocking in at his ministry yesterday.

Fahmi was slated to have a meeting with a representative from TikTok yesterday.

On Nov 30, TikTok management was called up by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) following three sponsored videos on its platform that warn of a recurrence of the May 13, 1969 riots.

“MCMC, through cooperation with PDRM, has also called up the TikTok management to provide an explanation on the matter.

“The spread of provocative content to cause disharmony, hatred and prejudice is an offence under the Penal Code (Act 574), and will result in a penalty, jail sentence or both if convicted guilty,” it said in a statement on Nov 30.

MCMC said spreading such content could cause disharmony and hatred, especially in the context of race and religion.

Meanwhile, on the 5G rollout, Fahmi said he is looking forward to meeting representatives from Digital Nasional Bhd to understand the current situation

Fahmi said while spectrum distribution falls under the purview of his ministry, DNB itself is under the Finance Ministry.

“With regard to the issue of spectrum distribution, whatever my personal sentiments before, now that I am the minister in charge ... I will have to refer to the Cabinet and seek some instructions,” he added.