Freedom of Expression Must Not Be Used to Incite Division, Says Fahmi
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian government has stressed that the right to speak and assemble peacefully must not be exploited to provoke unrest or undermine national unity.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said freedom of expression must be balanced with responsibility, especially in a multiracial society.
He revealed that between January 2025 and January 2026, authorities had removed 1,493 online contents linked to sensitive issues involving race, religion, and royalty.
The enforcement was carried out in collaboration with the Suruhanjaya Komunikasi dan Multimedia Malaysia and global digital platforms.
Freedom Does Not Mean Absolute Liberty
Fahmi noted that while freedom of speech is protected under rulings by the Mahkamah Persekutuan Malaysia, it does not grant individuals the right to spread falsehoods or incite hatred.
“People are free to express opinions, but not to defame or provoke,” he said.
He added that extreme 3R-related content remains a criminal offence despite recent amendments to communication laws.
Peaceful Assembly Must Be Responsible
On public gatherings, Fahmi reaffirmed that Malaysians have the right to organise peaceful assemblies as part of democratic practice.
However, he cautioned against using such platforms to fuel hostility or threaten public order.
“Constructive and fact-based assemblies strengthen democracy, but provocative actions weaken social harmony,” he said.
Safeguarding Social Stability
Fahmi stressed that the government will continue monitoring online platforms and public activities to prevent abuse of free expression.
The goal, he said, is to preserve social stability, racial harmony, and mutual trust among citizens.
-wilayah.com.my
