Google says Singapore’s fake news law may hurt innovation

A general view of the Singapore skyline business district is seen from Marina Bay on February 18, 2019. (Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP)

SINGAPORE: Google said on May 9 an anti-fake news law passed by Singapore's parliament could stunt innovation, a quality that the city-state wants to nurture under plans to expand its tech industry.

Singapore's parliament on May 8 passed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill, a law criticised by rights groups, journalists and tech firms over fears it could be used to clamp down on freedom of speech.