SEVERAL Twitter users today claimed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had tried to get Twitter to take down tweets that were seen as critical of the government’s handling of the recent floods.

Some took to Twitter to share a screenshot of an email correspondence from Twitter’s legal team to show MCMC’s complaints to the social media company.

However, Twitter did not take any action against the tweets despite the regulator’s request.

“In the interest of transparency, we are writing to inform you that Twitter has received a request from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission regarding your Twitter account that claims the following content violates the law(s) of Malaysia,” Twitter Legal’s email read while referring to the links of the tweets.

“We have not taken any action on the reported content at this time as a result of this request,” it added.

The social media giant said it strongly believes in defending and respecting the voices of the people, hence it is its policy to notify users once it receives such legal requests.

A user called @cheryltanxr said she received a warning that her tweets had violated the country’s laws.

“Some of you may be wondering where my tweet about one of the shelters discriminating (against) foreigners went. Just want to update here that I’ve received a warning from Twitter and MCMC asking me to remove my tweet as I’ve violated Malaysian laws,” she tweeted.

Meanwhile, @BadBoy2662 said his tweets that were targeted by MCMC were those critical of Women, Family and Community Development Minister Rina Mohd Harun and Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Noh Omar.

The move also drew the attention of other Twitter users, including Batu Kawan member of Parliament Kasthuriraani Patto.

“PM @IsmailSabri60, #KeluargaMalaysia means nothing if you allow MCMC to persecute those who criticise the government for its ineffectiveness in managing the floods.

“Even you have admitted flaws of the government in this. Instruct MCMC to stop intimidating voices of dissent!” she tweeted.

Lawyer and activist Siti Kasim lauded Twitter for upholding users’ constitutional right to express their dissatisfaction.

“Apa ni Boss…@IsmailSabri60. Don’t la use govt machinery to stop freedom of expression in criticising gomen… Well done @Twitter for upholding our constitutional right to express dissatisfaction with our government,” she tweeted.

Meanwhile, Josef Benedict, who is a researcher with Civicus, a global alliance of civil society organisations and activists, was appalled by the move.

“Appalling that the #Malaysian government is trying to silence online criticism of their handling of the floods. Blatant violation of the right to freedom of expression. Good that @Twitter is pushing back,” he said.

The Malaysian Insight has also reached out to Twitter for confirmation. – December 23, 2021.