MCMC probing cyber bullying cases

Parents urged to be pro-active in protecting children

CYBER bullying is among more than 260 cases investigated under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, says Datuk Seri Jailani Johari.

The Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister said records showed that 269 cases were being probed up to Sept 30 this year.

“Out of that total, 54% or 146 cases were investigated under Section 233 of the Act for improper use of network facilities or services.

“Fifty-six investigation papers were also opened and will be submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for prosecution. The rest are still under investigations,” he said in reply to Dr Ismail Daut (BN-Merbok).

Dr Ismail had asked to state the number of cases being probed and if there were any plans to further tighten the provisions of the Act.

Jailani urged parents to be more technology-savvy to protect their children from becoming victims of cyber bullying.

He said at least 33% of children were victims of cyber bullying and that only 27% of parents were adept in handling or educating their children on such issues.

“There seems to be a gap in terms of technology between parents and their children. Parents must play an active role to help their children in addressing cyber bullies,” he said.

On the Act, Jailani said the Government felt it was adequate to handle offences in the communications and multimedia industry, especially those involving misuse of the Internet and social media.

He added that if the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) was facing any constraints, action could still be taken under other laws.

Among them are the Sedition Act 1948, Penal Code, Defamation Act 1957, Copyright Act 1987 and Computer Crimes Act 1997.

Jailani said MCMC would follow through all complaints by way of prosecution, warning notices, advisories or referring them to other enforcement agencies.

He said the ministry also mobilises initiatives to create more public awareness on using the Internet in a positive manner and be factually savvy, instead of spreading or sharing unverified news.

“Through MCMC, we have launched the sebenarnya.my portal in March as a measure to curb fake or unverified news. Up to last month, the portal has received 12.75 million visitors since it was launched,” he said.