Cyberbullying not applicable to politicians, says Dr Wee

PETALING JAYA: Do not use the recent cyberbullying case as justification to tighten free speech, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

He said that Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has used both the cyberbullying case and the assassination attempt on former United States president Donald Trump to suggest monitoring social media chats.

Dr Wee said in a TikTok video posted on Thursday (July 18) that he expressed his sympathies over the recent death of Hindu rights activist and influencer A. Rajeswary, or Esha in which the perpetrators were fined RM100.

He however added that he does not wish for this incident to be treated as a justification to block the voice of the people.

"This cannot be used as a weapon to silence criticism against the government," he said.

Dr Wee added that strict action should be reserved for scammers, online fraud and gambling and added that it is usual for politicians to get both negative and positive comments throughout their careers.

He added that politicians should reflect on the constructive criticism they receive, and take legal action if what is said is defamatory.

"I would like to emphasise that the concept of cyberbullying cannot be applied to politicians," said Dr Wee.