Clarify scope of fake news task force, CIJ urges govt

GE15 | The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) has implored Communications and Multimedia Minister Annuar Musa to clarify how the government’s task force to monitor fake news on social media for the general election will operate.

CIJ executive director Wathshlah G Naidu urged Annuar to give the definition and scope of fake news adopted by the task force, as the group was concerned over the possible arbitrary use of it.

She also called on the minister to explain the task force’s processes to identify fake news.

"Any arbitrary and unchecked use of the task force will go against the fundamental norms of freedom of expression and speech as enshrined in our Federal Constitution and international standards, which clearly stipulate that the public has the right to know, seek and receive, as well as to impart ideas and information of all kinds.

"Any restrictions of said rights must be legitimate, necessary and proportionate,” Wathshlah said in a statement today.

Further, she highlighted concerns about engagement levels between the task force and social media companies, and safeguards in the event of wrongful removal of content.

CIJ also asked what measures will be taken to prevent the weaponisation and misuse of the task force as a tool for political agendas and ensure that it will remain impartial.

“The focus must be on educating the public. The government should support credible public service broadcasting so that people are able to check their trusted news source,” she added.

Task force can take immediate action

Yesterday, Annuar unveiled the newly formed task force comprising more than 100 personnel from the police and the Communications and Multimedia Commission.

“To wait for reports and to investigate is not really suitable at a time when elections are being held because candidates can be victims (of fake news), and it would be very damaging to them.

“As such, the task force will be allowed to take immediate action,” he had said.

COMMENT | Don’t be distracted by cyber trooper red herring

Be courteous, tolerant when commenting on GE15 - MCMC

TikTok seeks youth empowerment through its GE15 campaign

Not true one cannot vote outside 'recommended voting time'

Youth campaign blasts multiple misuses of race and religion in GE15

'Next govt must look into combating cyber troopers'