TO prevent more problems resulting from the spread of false news, the anti-fake news bill must not be delayed, said Education Minister Mahdzir Khalid.

The Umno Supreme Council member said the bill which was passed by the cabinet two days ago was timely for the protection of all.

“The more you delay, the more problems caused by fake news… which is confusing,” he said.

“For instance, in the Education Ministry, the director-general announced a two-day school holiday in Selangor and the Federal Territory because of haze. In the afternoon, a (fake) letter came out saying that the holiday had been extended one more day.” 

He was speaking at the launch of Teachers’ Day celebrations in Kuala Lumpur today.

Mahdzir was commenting on socio-cultural adviser to the government, Rais Yatim’s statement that the government should not be unduly hasty in passing the new law.

Mahdzir said the spread of fake news was one of the challenges that must be tackled in today’s digital era and information explosion as it had a big effect on the nation and in shaping the people’s thoughts.

“If it gets to the stage where it disrupts official matters, academic information and such… it cannot be ignored without a mechanism to control it. I do not think a confusing situation like this is good for the development of the minds and civic consciousness of future generations,” he said.

Mahdzir also reminded all parties, including the opposition, to separate education from politics.

“If you want to sing or campaign for any issue, do it in the right context. Sing loudly… but do not involve students and be in a place that is not suitable for party interests,” he said. – Bernama, March 23, 2018.