CMA necessary to ensure freedom of speech used prudently

The Communication and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA)is necessary to ensure freedom of speech is used prudently, said deputy communications minister Teo Nie Ching.

“At the same online crimes that is related to the security of the people can be curtailed,” she said.

“Freedom of speech is not absolute since Article 10 (2) of the Federal Constitution allows parliament through law impose restrictions that are necessary in the interest this federation’s security.

She said this in response to the issue of balancing freedom and restriction to freedom of speech via amendments to the CMA.

The issue was raised by Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi) in the special chambers.

In presenting the issue, Syahredzan admitted that the act is still relevant in protecting Malaysians over sexual harassment and cyber bully cases.

Teo also said that it is the stand of the government to curtail social media abuse through the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

“The enforcement is only done by MCMC based on report from the affected parties without taking into consideration political understandings and ideologies.”

She added that investigations are done in a wholesome and transparent manner.

She added that since 2009 to 15 June 2024 MCMC investigated 3,077 cases under section 233 of the CMA.

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