Comms ministry to work with social media platform providers to tackle fake news, says Teo

IPOH: The Communications and Digital Ministry will work closely with social media platform providers on tackling fake news and hate speeches, says Teo Nie Ching.

The Deputy Minister said there was a rising trend related to inaccurate contents and hate speeches and the platform providers would be asked to cooperate with them by removing such posts.

“We are seeing a rising trend since January this year.

“Since January this year, 35 cases have been investigated,” she said during a walkabout at the Perak Stadium food court here on Sunday (Feb 26).

“According to the trend, it could increase to 350 cases this year,” she said.

“Of course, I hope that the people are digital savvy and will not come out with inaccurate content and fake statements,” she added.

Teo said hate speeches cannot have a platform or opportunity as it is a threat to the country.

“Hate speeches and fake news will be our focus to ensure harmony of this country is not impacted.

“Actions will be taken immediately, there is no delay to prevent these from becoming more widespread,” she said, adding that the relevant agencies would issue statements, at the least, on social media to counter the inaccurate contents.

“If we want to delete a post, it will take time (because) the government does not have rights to do so.

“We can only ask the platform provider to delete it. This is how it works now and is the rule,” she added.