KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 7 (Bernama) -- A total of 1,493 pieces of content related to issues involving religion, royalty and race (3R) have been taken down so far following close monitoring by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in cooperation with global platform operators.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the action was taken in response to 2,486 complaints submitted seeking the removal of sensitive content for the period from Jan 1, 2025 to Jan 31, 2026.
He said that although the public has the right to freedom of expression as recently decided by the Federal Court, this does not amount to absolute freedom to commit defamation or incite extreme provocation, particularly on matters touching on 3R sensitivities.
“The Federal Court’s decision shows that we have the right to freedom of expression, but not the right to defame or to issue statements of a 3R nature.
“Although we have amended the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, specifically Section 233(1), where the term ‘offensive’ is no longer used and has been replaced with ‘grossly offensive’, 3R-related messages are still considered an offence and action can be taken,” he told reporters after attending the Chinese New Year Open House for the Lembah Pantai parliamentary constituency at the Taman Sri Sentosa Market here today.
Fahmi said MCMC is capable of tracing individuals who leave 3R-related comments, even if they are not on the original post.
In a related development, he said Malaysians have the right to assemble peacefully, but assemblies are not permitted if they are intended to divide the people and threaten national security.
He said this matter requires particular attention ahead of visits by foreign dignitaries, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today.
Fahmi said the authorities, particularly the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), are prepared to take firm action against any party attempting to disrupt public order.
He also urged the public to always act responsibly when using digital platforms and to comply with the law in order to preserve national harmony.
-- BERNAMA
