Jailani said this in response to the viral news on the death of 14-year-old Nur Afini Roslan, who died when a blade from a grass mower tractor struck her head yesterday morning.
The student of Sekolah Menengah Tuanku Abdul Rahman in Gemas, Negeri Sembilan, died on the spot in the 10.30am incident, which happened at the school field.
“First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the girl’s family.
“Netizens should be more responsible in spreading news stories, especially when it involves death.
“Horrifying pictures of the victims should not be viralised. Think about their families and their feelings.
“Don’t go and try to be a champion in spreading such news.
“It is enough for us to know and learn the lesson from it (the incidents); don’t spread it.”
The deputy minister was met after opening the Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Tok Randok’s parent-teacher association annual general meeting here today.
Jailani, who is also Hulu Terengganu MP, said such unethical acts were also an offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a fine of not more than RM50,000 or a maximum jail term of one year, or both, if convicted.
In another development, Jailani also called on parents to constantly monitor their children’s cyber activities to prevent them from getting involved in social ills through social media.
“Yesterday, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun revealed the involvement of primary and secondary school students in drug purchases through WeChat and WhatsApp.
“Hence, I want to stress on the importance of constant monitoring of these children’s cyber activities, not necessarily by the government, police and teachers, but most importantly by the parents.
“This is not only to avoid drug purchases, but also the purchase of other illegal items,” he said.
Inquiry into death of student hit by lawn mower’s flying blade