PUTRAJAYA, July 24 — The government will soon announce several improvements, including legislation, to address cyberbullying, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
He said a special committee to tackle the issue has held discussions and identified several issues.
“We have established a committee of four ministries and have held several discussions, which are progressing well.
“We have identified the issues and the measures to be taken. We will announce these steps soon,” he said at a press conference here today.
The committee comprises the Communications Ministry, Home Affairs Ministry, Digital Ministry and Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform).
It was previously reported the committee will thoroughly review the Penal Code to combat cyberbullying, with amendments expected to be tabled in Parliament this October.
The push for new legislation follows the death of influencer Rajeswary Appahu, better known as Esha, who was a victim of cyberbullying.
She was found dead in a condominium unit in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, on July 5, a day after filing a police report about the cyberbullying she was facing.
Last week, P. Shalini, a shelter owner linked to Esha’s death, was charged in court, but was only fined RM100 by the Kuala Lumpur Magistrate’s Court.
Gobind assured the government takes cyberbullying seriously and is working to strengthen existing laws and review inadequate penalties.
“We all know that moving forward, the digital world will change the way of life and business. We encourage everyone to use digital platforms, but the government takes security aspects seriously. We will not tolerate abuse, and if it occurs, stern action will be taken,” he said.
— Bernama
