THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reiterated that its actions against several media outlets were not to stifle press freedom but to ensure responsible dissemination of information.

MCMC, in a statement last night, said it operates under the provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998) as the regulatory body for the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia.

“One of MCMC’s key national policy objectives is to provide the people of Malaysia protection from the adverse effect of online harm, including misinformation and hate speech, as well as safeguarding the integrity of the constitutional monarch and democratic institutions with reverence and respect from any attempts to incite hatred or contempt,” it said.

The MCMC said this in response to a statement yesterday from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) titled “RSF denounces arbitrary suspension of news websites critical of the government”.

The commission said one of its key responsibilities is also to prevent the misuse of online platforms for committing offences under the law.

“With the increasing prevalence of online information, there has been a rise in irresponsible and inaccurate reporting. Some news outlets have been found to be intentionally spreading misleading information or publishing inaccurate content, which can harm the harmony enjoyed by the community.

“To address these issues, MCMC has the authority and duty to take regulatory action against the spread of fake, offensive and menacing content,” it said.

The commission said it is open to dialogue and regularly engages with senior editors and journalists to address concerns and issues related to freedom of expression, while also aiming to work hand in hand with the media fraternity to combat the rise of misinformation and malicious disinformation. – Bernama, September 2, 2023.