Malaysian Government Must Uphold Democratic Principles in Internet Regulation

JAKARTA, 18 September 2024 – The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) demands that Malaysian authorities unequivocally guarantee the rights of citizens to free expression and access to information while regulating a safe online environment.

While the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is committed to creating a safe and secure online environment free from illegal and harmful content, such initiatives must align with democratic principles.

“The Malaysian government must ensure that its efforts to protect citizens from online harms are executed in a manner that upholds the fundamental freedoms essential to a democratic society,” stated Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson and member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives.

Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson. ©APHR2024

Immediate and decisive action is urgently required from the Malaysian government to restore faith in its commitment to human rights and democratic values, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution and international human rights commitments.

“The right to free speech is not merely an individual privilege; it is a pivotal component of a functioning society,” Mercy added.

The MCMC has mandated that all internet service providers implement public DNS (Domain Name System) redirection for businesses, enterprises, and governments by September 30. This measure is said to be a part of a broader strategy to ensure online safety by targeting illicit activities such as online gambling, pornography, and scams.

However, reports indicate that MCMC has blocked over 20,000 websites across various categories, raising serious concerns about the implications of freedom of expression and the stifling of online civic spaces. MCMC has since postponed the implementation of this policy.

In recent months, we have witnessed a disturbing rise in censorship, intimidation of journalists and rights advocates, and the suppression of dissenting voices, including arbitrary arrests and the use of restrictive laws to silence critics.

“The implementation of DNS redirection must align with the commitment to a free and open internet, where the exchange of ideas and information can thrive safely,” emphasized Kasit Piromya, APHR Board Member and former member of the Thai Parliament.

Kasit Piromya, APHR Board Member. ©APHR2024

APHR stands resolutely with those advocating for freedom of expression in Malaysia and across ASEAN and calls for an immediate cessation of all acts of repression against individuals exercising their right to speak and be heard.

Freedom of expression is the cornerstone of any democratic society. It fosters scrutiny, promotes transparency, and supports vibrant public discourse. Therefore, it is crucial to cultivate an environment of open debate and dialogue where diverse perspectives can be expressed freely and respectfully.