The MCMC should not be attempting to suppress online postings critical of the government’s actions

THE Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) strongly condemns the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) reported attempt to remove Twitter posts that were critical of the government's alleged mishandling of the floods situation in Malaysia. According to a news report, MCMC reported several flood-related hashtags to Twitter as they were "obscene" to ensure compliance with Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) 1998.

Freedom of expression (FOE) includes the fundamental right to seek and exchange ideas and information to enable the public to form their own opinions. This freedom also allows for dissenting or alternative positions, specifically on issues of public interests, and ultimately promotes good governance by holding the state to account. It follows that dissent, a difference in opinion, and criticism of the government are protected and valid forms of expression.