‘Younger generation learn by example‘

KUALA LUMPUR: The older generation cannot blame youths for the dissemination of fake news on social media as the elders are the ones who have set a bad example, said academician Datuk Dr Mohd Rasid Hussin.

Rasid, who is a member of the National Scientific Expert Panel, a committee under the Prime Minister’s Department, said the older generation must re-evaluate the role they played in influencing the minds of the younger generation.

He expressed concern that the spread of fake news on social media would turn into a crisis which could destabilise the nation.

“The spread of fake news on social media is at a critical level. We can’t just let it be. If we can’t handle it, it will destroy the country. We can’t blame the younger generation because they learn by example.

“The problem is with the elders because some of them are critical of the government. They are the ones setting this bad example.”

In an effort to curb the problem, Rasid, who is also the Overseas Universities Alumni Association president, said he and his team would send a petition on fighting fake news to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

To date, the association has received 238 signatures objecting to the spread of fake information about the government and the prime minister by Pakatan Harapan chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his allies.

“We will send the petition to the prime minister on Saturday (today). As an academician, I am very concerned about this issue.

“We can accept the truth, but when you spin information, it shows that you have no responsibility and accountability.

“Even if you are educated, you will be seen as one of the laymen because you are setting a bad example for others.”

The spread of fake news on social media is at a critical level. We can’t just let it be. If we can’t handle it, it will destroy the country.