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MCMC explains why it blocked M'kini's GE14 page
Published:  May 18, 2018 11:28 AM
Updated: 7:24 AM

The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said it had briefly blocked Malaysiakini's GE14 results page after receiving public complaints.

"Complaints from the public, among others, claim that the results or information contained in the website 'dilihat kurang tepat' (appear to be inaccurate).

"However, upon reviewing the contents that were published, the restriction was lifted in view that the criteria used cannot be applied in the current circumstances," MCMC said in a statement today.

Independent digital transparency advocacy group Sinar Project said that its study had confirmed that Malaysiakini's live.undi.info website was blocked during polling day at approximately 9.55pm.

MCMC, which routinely issues takedown notices, did not contact Malaysiakini on May 9 before issuing restriction orders to internet service providers.

The restrictions were, however, ineffective because Malaysiakini had instructed readers on how to overcome the problems, allowing approximately 10 million internet users to continue using the page.

The MCMC, in its statement today, said that all orders to restrict access to websites were done in accordance with the law and based on complaints from the public.

Examples of online content that may be restricted include pornography and obscene materials.

"All this is done (in the interest of) public order," MCMC said.

However, it added, these restrictions are subject to review.

"In the case of Sarawak Report and Medium.com, there was no longer a need to restrict access once the 1MDB report became public," MCMC said.

Both websites were accessible yesterday after being blocked for nearly three years.

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