Cops probing alleged cyberbullying death involving TikTok user

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has confirmed that the case of a TikTok influencer who allegedly died by suicide after being cyberbullied has been referred to the police for investigation.

He clarified that while the victim had previously lodged a complaint with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the complaint was unrelated to the cyberbullying incident believed to have contributed to her death.

“However, incidents like these underscore why the ministry and the government are committed to scrutinising and monitoring social media content and platform management,” Fahmi stated, as reported by Bernama.

Earlier today, the tragic incident, which claimed the life of the 25-year-old, sparked widespread attention on social media. Users alleged that her death was a result of the relentless harassment she endured over several weeks.

Elaborating on the case, Urimai deputy chairperson David Marshel told Malaysiakini that the harassment began after the victim engaged in an online debate with a group of influencers who subsequently targeted her.

“The victim was even briefly detained, and upon her release, she faced continued cyberbullying, including the use of derogatory language and usage of her family pictures,” he explained.

David disclosed that the victim reached out to him about the harassment and he advised her to stay offline.

“Unfortunately, today, I received the news.

“The issue of deaths related to cyberbullying in Malaysia is not new, and we have been urging the government to implement new policies or regulations to curb the prevalence of fake social media accounts, especially on platforms like TikTok and Telegram,” he said.

Therefore, he suggested that the government enforce mandatory registration of social media accounts using MyKad or passport numbers.

“This measure would help prevent severe bullying and defamation, enabling authorities to take decisive action and empowering victims to pursue legal recourse against perpetrators,” David asserted.

Echoing the same sentiment, social activist Tamil Eswaran filed a police report and demanded justice for the victim.

“We lodged the report to ensure accountability for the responsible (social media) accounts and urged the MCMC to deactivate fake accounts on the platform,” Tamil told Malaysiakini.

Meanwhile, former Klang MP Charles Santiago expressed his intention to meet with the victim’s family and explore legal avenues.

“I’ve contacted lawyers who are prepared to assist. We cannot afford another tragedy. The proposed Online Safety Bill, which criminalises actions contributing to suicide, must be expedited,” he stressed.

Malay Mail reported last year that Fahmi had outlined plans to expedite legislation addressing cyberbullying to combat its escalating impact. The legislation would take about two to three years to enact.

Social media platforms should be more responsible

Meanwhile, Bernama quoted the minister saying he is unhappy with how social media platforms such as TikTok handle complaints of cyberbullying, and appear to be taking the matter lightly.

He will meet all social media platforms at the end of this month to address cyberbullying issues.

“The meeting will also be attended by the MCMC, the Attorney-General’s Chambers, and other stakeholders, to review and scrutinise this matter based on the complaints received.

“We want comprehensive changes, and we want platform providers to be more responsible and to take action according to the laws of this country.

“They have gained significant profits from advertising revenue, so if there are any complaints, they are obliged to take appropriate action,” he was quoted as saying.

The World Health Organization considers suicide a public health issue but says it is preventable with proper intervention.

If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, or know someone who is, please call the following hotlines:

Talian Kasih
Hotline: 15999

The Befrienders
Hotline: 03-76272929

Agape Counselling Centre Malaysia
Hotline: 03-77855955 or 03-77810800

Life Line Association Malaysia
Hotline: 03-42657995

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