No plans for hate speech laws

PARLIAMENT | Putrajaya does not plan to enact new legislation to deal with hate speech as present laws are sufficient, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang (above) said the existing laws include Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 which covered seditious statements and abuse of network facilities respectively.

He also cited six sections of the Penal Code which could be used as well.

“The Federal Constitution states that everyone is the same under the law and has a right to equal and fair protections under the law.

“Except where allowed by the Federal Constitution, discrimination is not allowed based on religion, race, ethnicity, skin colour, place of birth, or gender.

“Currently, the laws to protect inter-ethnic ties are sufficient. Anyone who does anything that threatens inter-ethnic or inter-religious ties will be prosecuted under these laws,” Aaron said.

In view of this, the National Unity Ministry was of the opinion that there is no need for new laws to address such issues.

However, Aaron said the government may review its position where necessary.

He said this in a written reply to V Ganabatirau (Harapan-Klang) who asked if the government planned to enact a law to deal with hate speech and a law to protect minorities.

Previously, MPs such as Syerleena Abdul Rashid (Harapan-Bukit Bendera) and Lee Chean Chung (Harapan-Petaling Jaya) mooted laws specifically to deal with hate speech following the conclusion of the general election last November.

Although Harapan promised to “review or repeal” the Sedition Act 1948, it has been silent on the progress of this pledge.

However, there are indications that a review of Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 is in progress.

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