Stricter enforcement needed on spreading of fake news
Kota Baru: Stricter enforcement is needed on those spreading fake news on social media platforms, said Malaysia's Umno information chief Tan Sri Annuar Musa.
He said the Malaysian government must act on this to avoid adverse impacts on the country's democratic system and economy which would ultimately make the people the victims.
"It appears the spread of fake news is being used as political fodder by some quarters to grab power by unethical means. They are trying to influence the people with fake news.
"Fake news is also being spread to frighten foreign investors, claiming that Malaysia is on the verge of bankruptcy and the like. Such actions will kill democracy," he said. He was speaking to reporters after a thanksgiving and aid distribution function for needy residents from around the Ketereh parliamentary constituency at his residence. Mr Musa, who is also the MP for Ketereh, said the government should follow in the footsteps of several countries which are making efforts to curb the spread of fake news.
On other matters, he said the Barisan Nasional had introduced a standard operating procedure setting a maximum of four hours to counter each fake news especially lies spread by the opposition.
"I expect with the 14th General Election to be called at anytime, there will be a proliferation of fake news. We have to be on guard and counter these swiftly," he said.
He also said that 300 BN information officers will convene at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur tomorrow for a two-day conference to be updated on issues like Felda, 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), the economy and security.
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