We need clear definition of misinformation - Youth leaders

KUALA LUMPUR - As online misinformation grows, political leaders are calling for an Online Safety Act to protect users. However, they stressed the importance of ensuring such regulations don’t suppress legitimate criticism or dissent.

According to Muda’s Damansara division head Abolqaz Anuar, misinformation can sometimes be used as a form of abuse, such as cyberbullying, to cause distress.

He stressed that the government needs to clearly define what constitutes misinformation to effectively tackle it while distinguishing it from other harmful online behaviours.

“The issue of misinformation is different from cyberbullying. Who decides whether information is right or wrong? It is very difficult to impose this act,” he said in a forum co-organised by the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih).

Abolqaz also pointed out that freedom of speech should not be used to spread hateful or harmful speech, which is often shared without consideration.

He argued that the best way to address dissent is through open and constructive dialogue.

"We fight lies with truth, we fight hate with love, and we approach the issue with education," he said.

Meanwhile, DAP’s Angie En Qi expressed similar concerns, noting that social media often becomes a platform for attacking individuals, sometimes without their consent, especially when issues go viral.

"In Malaysia, we have a habit of arguing online and putting people on the internet without revealing the full context," she said, further urging the need for a law that ensures social media remains a safe space.

Umno Division Branch Chief and Committee Member, Mohd Shahril Aznam agreed to this emphasising the importance of individuals understanding their rights when confronted with online mistreatment.

"Any law is only effective if it protects your rights following a violation," he said.

Meanwhile, Faizzuddin Zai, a member of the Pas Youth working committee, said the Opposition needs to be guaranteed the right to express its opinions and give constructive criticism.

He also expressed concern about the lack of enforcement over sensitive issues such as race, religion, and royalty (3R), which are often discussed online.

"We only know that the police may control it, but we don’t know on what basis. It’s hard for us to effectively oppose or voice our opinions," he said.

Faizzuddin called for clear laws that protect the public’s right to speak and share accurate information, believing such laws could help Malaysia progress.

"We need a clear law to ensure the public can speak up with the right information," he added.