He said measures to tackle the spread of fake news were very timely as the spread of fake news could jeopardise national security, religious affiliations and racial unity among the people.
“Not at all, there is no connection (with GE14). Indeed, even since before, we (government) had considered this matter (move to review laws to curb fake news).
“Of course, we have several current laws such as the Communications and Multimedia Act, Sedition Act, but when it comes to fake news, it can affect national security, hence it is crucial for us to have related specific laws,” he told reporters after visiting the Festival GegaRia 2018 at Angsana Johor Bahru Mall here today.
Salleh said, as was publicly known, fake news going viral was widespread throughout the world and many countries had taken the necessary steps to address the matter.
He said the lack of control over the spread of fake news would certainly hurt the country and people as every individual should use social media positively.
“The government has decided to set up a special committee to study new laws to curb fake news, which is chaired by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Azalina Othman Said.
“We in Malaysia also have many victims of fake news, as such the government wants to create a special act that can be tabled in parliament at the next sitting,” he said.
Salleh said the proposed law is expected to be presented by Azalina at the next cabinet meeting for it to be scrutinised.
Based on record, the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received 1,203 complaints relating to fake news and fake contents last year while over 1,800 websites, portals and blogs were blocked during the same period for distributing contents that were confusing and could lead to instability among the multiracial communities.
The sebenarnya.my portal being developed by MCMC as a reference centre to determine the authenticity of news being viral recorded 15 million hits since it was launched in March last year.
Meanwhile, on his visit to the Festival GegaRia, Salleh said it attracted young people to visit and view the country’s development since independence through the exhibition being held.
He said the people needed to view such a programme as Malaysia was peaceful and stable, unlike other countries.
The Festival GegaRia 2018 being organised by Media Prima Berhad is the second location after it was held on Jan 13 in Shah Alam, Selangor.