Netizens express discontent over government's streaming platform regulation plan

SHAH ALAM – The Unity Government faces a wave of criticism after Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail expressed readiness to meet the Communications Ministry if there was a need for streaming platforms to be regulated.

Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat recently, Saifuddin said this included placing streaming platforms like Netflix under the purview of the Film Censorship Board (LPF).

Saifuddin's revelation also aimed at the LPF under the communications ministry, targets content deemed Islamophobic or promoting LGBTQ+ themes.

The proposal stems from a discussion with Perikatan Nasional (PN) MP Ahmad Fadhli Shaari regarding media regulation and streaming platforms. However, the idea has sparked outrage on social media platforms like X.

Malaysians voice discontent

Many netizens expressed their frustration, with some calling for Saifuddin and similar-minded ministers to be voted out.

One tweet exemplified the sentiment: "Maybe not voting for him wouldn't be enough.

"We should reject all like him to prevent them from ever holding power again. We didn't vote for this!"

Another user, @mfatih_aziz, highlighted the government's misplaced priorities: "Censorship stifles freedom. This isn't why we voted."

Discord within the Unity Government?

The proposal has exposed a potential ideological rift within the Unity Government.

Some, like @ruffleseed, believed this is a strategic move to win over conservative voters.

"The best Yang Berhormat Senator! This is a progressive step! In the next election, we shall win over Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah because of this achievement.

"YB Senator will definitely win over P018 Kulim. After that, you can enter the Cabinet through the main door! Let's go," they said.

However, others, like @Natcromancer, viewed this as a dangerous shift towards authoritarianism.

They pointed out that the country has more pressing issues like financial mismanagement and economic woes.

"This "Unity Government" is becoming more like the Malaysian version of "United Russia."

"We've got a problem with illicit outflows of money, crony capitalist economy. And now, wanting to censor anything LGBTQ-related," they said.

Another user @techsupremo commented: It is the year of 2024 and people still try to block entertainment that can only be watched with a simple click of the button "Play" and not watched by force. Enough of pleading to the people who did not vote for you. Oh I forgot, you lost the last election. So, what do you know about winning votes?"

As of now, the ministers have not responded to the public's concerns.

This lack of communication further fuels the frustration of Malaysians who feel their voices are unheard.

Saifuddin's proposal has undeniably ignited a firestorm. Whether the government caves to public pressure or pushes forward with this policy remains to be seen.