BUTTERWORTH, July 21 — A special task force comprising four ministries will undertake a comprehensive review before proposing amendments to the Penal Code aimed at combating cyberbullying, with changes expected to be tabled in Parliament in October.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said her ministry, in collaboration with the Digital Ministry, the Home Affairs Ministry, and the Communications Ministry, will focus on defining cyberbullying, as the term has not been explicitly addressed in the country’s legislation.
To better understand global best practices, she will organise an international legal seminar on online threats, drawing insights from countries including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. This initiative acknowledges the ongoing debate between upholding democratic principles and determining the boundaries of human rights.
“Regarding the issue of cyberbullying, some people argue they have the freedom to say whatever they like because, unlike physical bullying, it only involves words,” she said.
“However, cyberbullying is not a one-time offence. It often includes actions such as swooping, doxxing, and intimidation. The most damaging aspect is its inflammatory nature, where individuals incite others to foster hatred,” she explained.
She said this to reporters after officiating the Bukit Mertajam Umno representatives’ meeting here today.
Azalina reportedly said recently that the government, through its Legal Affairs Division, was considering a proposal to amend the Penal Code to introduce specific provisions for cyberbullying offences.
She said the proposed amendment will define the term cyberbullying and classify it as a specific offence in Malaysia.
— Bernama
