The Malaysian government has introduced a bill that aims to tighten control over internet usage. The proposed regulations have faced significant backlash from critics who argue that they could suppress dissent and undermine Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s commitment to safeguarding free speech. The bill seeks to impose stricter penalties on content violations and grant law enforcement extensive powers, including the right for “authorized officers” to search and seize without a warrant.
Service providers could also be held liable under the new law and compelled to disclose user data during investigations of alleged violations. Representatives from companies such as Meta Platforms Inc., Elon Musk’s X, and Alphabet Inc.’s Google could face arrest under the proposed measures. Civil rights groups have urged the government to pause the legislation, pending further consultation and public feedback.
They argue that the amendments prioritize control over information and pose risks of censorship and suppression of dissent.
Internet control bill sparks backlash
The bill includes highly disproportionate punitive measures and strengthens investigative powers, according to the organizations Article 19 and the Centre for Independent Journalism.
Malaysia’s move is part of a broader trend in Asia, where governments are tightening regulations on online platforms and holding Big Tech firms accountable for illegal content. Countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia are implementing similar measures. The Malaysian bill outlines potential offenses, including posting obscene, false, menacing, and grossly offensive content such as hate speech.
If approved, fines for certain offenses will increase more than threefold to 1 million Malaysian ringgit ($220,000), and the maximum prison time will be extended to 10 years from three. However, critics warn that the bill’s expansive and vague terms could be arbitrarily interpreted, violating the right to privacy and enabling misuse of power. Lawmakers are expected to debate and vote on the proposed legislation during the current parliament session ending December 12.
The Malaysian government “seems to disregard public participation for purposes of political expediency and is more focused on railroading through amendments that appear to control information and censor the internet,” civil groups said on Tuesday.
