The government does not intend to control or restrict the freedom of speech, which goes with responsibility and accountability, through the proposed formulation of a law to curb fake news, said MCA president Liow Tiong Lai.

He said freedom of speech, if used in an irresponsible manner, including to spread false news and touching on racial sensitivities, it could affect harmony and prosperity in the country.

“Our leaders have always strived to ensure continuous harmony, unity and development in the country, and if (we) allow someone who is irresponsible to play up sensitive issues and spread fake news, this will worsen (and) will be bad for the country, ” he told reporters after attending the Tunku Abdul Rahman University College convocation ceremony in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Liow, who is also Transport Minister, said the proposed law, if enforced, would not curb the people from voicing out or criticising the government but it should be based on facts and with basis.

Meanwhile, in Alor Setar, PAS Youth chief Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi (photo) supported the government's move to formulate the law in order to restrict the spread of false news.

“PAS Youth welcomes this proposal… In fact, we are also ready to give suggestions to improve the law, if allowed (to do so),” he said at the Tea Session with PAS Leaders at Taman Budiman yesterday.

On Jan 30 this year, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Azalina Othman Said, in a statement, said the government had set up a special committee to study a new law to curb the spread of false news in the country.

She also said the government hoped the new law could be brought to the Parliament in the next session.

- Bernama