PETALING JAYA: An increase of provocative posts on social media has led to 30 cases being investigated for sedition by Bukit Aman from January to March.
Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk M Kumar said in a statement on Friday (April 17) that police had seen a rise in social media posts on current issues and policies containing comments aimed to provoke or incite.
"This trend not only disrupts harmony in cyberspace but also creates an unhealthy virtual ecosystem and has the potential to trigger tensions within society if not curbed through enforcement.
"These irresponsible actions contravene legal provisions, particularly under the Sedition Act 1948 which prohibits any act, speech, or publication that has a tendency to incite or generate hatred towards the Royal Institution and the government," he said.
Citing statistics from the CID, he said 30 cases had been recorded and investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 from January to March.
"(These involved) acts or attempts to commit acts or utter words with seditious elements against the Royal Institution, race, the administration of justice, and the government," he said, urging the people to use social media responsibly and prudently.
"Freedom of speech is not a licence to spread statements that are insulting, defamatory, or provocative, which could potentially disrupt harmony, peace and public order.
"Strict action will be taken against any found to have misused network facilities, services, or application services for unlawful purposes.
"Cooperation from everyone is crucial to ensure that the digital space remains a safe platform while fostering a culture of mature, fact-based and respectful communication for the well-being of society and the stability of the nation," he said.
