Focus

Freedom of speech guaranteed but within legal limits, says Fahmi

08 Dec 2022 06:14pm
Digital Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil
Digital Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil
KUALA LUMPUR - Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil said today that he will defend the right to freedom of speech, but only if it is based on existing laws.

He said freedom of speech should not reach a point of defamation and baseless accusations.

"We draw the line, as a politician myself, a member of parliament and now minister, for sure freedom of speech will be defended, but when we detail out the laws, including the Communications and Multimedia Act, there are limitations where if there are offences committed, there will be legal repercussions.

"(So), what we voice out must have basis and can be defended in court,” he told a media conference after attending a briefing during his visit to Angkasapuri, Malaysian Broadcasting Department here today.

Also present was Communications and Digital Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohammad Mentek.

Fahmi said among the ministry’s focus would be to establish close cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and social media operators in ensuring the government's will to protect freedom of speech, but at the same time also ensuring that legal boundaries are always monitored and complied with.

"If there is a violation (of the law) then there must be action taken,” he said. - Bernama

freedom of speech
defamation
baseless accusations
fahmi fadzil
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