Backbencher calls for tighter control of FB ads over prevalence of 'inappropriate' content


KUALA LUMPUR: A government backbencher has called for tighter regulation of Facebook’s advertising ecosystem, warning that users may inadvertently encounter inappropriate content while browsing legitimate online listings.

Mohd Sany Hamzan (PH-Hulu Langat) said that while many genuine traders use social media platforms for business, some users could still encounter sexual or pornographic material.

"There are traders promoting all sorts of goods... If they want to sell legitimate products, they should.

"But sometimes, irresponsible sexual content is also inserted. It becomes difficult to control," he said when interjecting during the debate on the Cyber Crime Bill 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (July 1).

He also raised concerns over the promotion of women’s products, saying some content was "uncomfortable" to view.

Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who tabled the Bill for its second reading, said provisions relating to the dissemination of intimate images were drafted taking into account limitations in current laws, including Section 507E of the Penal Code and Section 8 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017.

The Bill also covers offences involving MyDigital ID, deepfakes, online fraud, ransomware, identity theft and the distribution of intimate images.

 

 

 

 

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Nation

Five PKR lawmakers call for findings of Azam Baki shareholdings probe to be made public
Distant wars, real fears: Children growing up in a world of conflict
New cybercrime law to tackle deepfakes, intimate images, says Zahid
Italy showing growing interest in JS-SEZ, says Economy Minister
Labourer freed of drug-trafficking charges
AKPS to get tough on officers who use fake MCs, abuse medical leave
Rosmah's solar hybrid case appeal postponed to Sept 1
Border agency sacks five officers, probes 50 others for integrity breaches
Warisan reps seek Sabah's exemption from targeted diesel subsidy revision
Growing use of ringgit and yuan in M'sia-China trade reduces exposure to external financial shocks, says Anwar

Others Also Read