Strict action needed against those who create and spread obscene content

SHAH ALAM - The government needs to arrest and take strict action against perpetrators who spreads obscene content on social media platforms.

Independent criminologist Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said that the action needs to be carried out continuously and be widely publicised so that the public can get the message about the government's efforts in dealing with the matter.

He said the offence of uploading, spreading or sharing any obscene contents on the internet can be charged under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, in which, if convicted, can be punished with one year imprisonment, a RM50,000 fine or both.

"We can directly block the platform just like how the Republic of China did, but people will get angry later because only some people commit the crime.

'What needs to be done is to take action against those who spread the content and to also publicise the government's effort to induce fear and refrain the people from committing the crime," he told Sinar on Friday.

Meanwhile, Universiti Utara Malaysia criminologist Dr Zalmizy Hussin said preventive measures and education should be provided so that the youth can recognise the risks and danger of spreading pornographic contents on the internet.

He said this is because the issue of spreading pornographic contents on the internet was a complex issue and can't be solved with restrictions alone.

"A holistic approach involving various parties such as the authorities, social media platforms owners, NGOs and civil society are also needed to effectively fight the spread of these type of content

"Other than restrictions, preventive measures and education must be provided so that the youth can recognise the risks and danger of spreading these type of content on the internet," said Zalmizy, who suggested parents or caretakers to install control software or porn blocking software on their computer and smartphones.

This is to help parents or caretakers to monitor their child's access to pornographic content on the internet.

"Additionally, education about the dangers of pornographic content should be provided to encourage youth to use the internet responsibly.

"The education needs to be provided by schools, authorities and parents so that the youth understands the risk and negative effects caused by spreading pornographic content and know of effective measures to protect themselves," he commented.