Beliawanis MCA proposes new legislation or amendments to existing laws to impose substantial penalties when online thuggery or even mild coaxing to depart lead directly to loss of life.
This legislative initiative draws inspiration from frameworks in certain states in America that have addressed similar challenges.
Our wing’s proposal follows the outrage over the paltry RM100 fine imposed on a TikTok user convicted for deliberately uttering vulgarities to incite anger and disturb peace in relation to the purported suicide of social media influencer A. Rajeswary, better known as Esha.
To be charged and fined under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act, which carries a maximum RM100 fine, sends the wrong message and could embolden bullies hiding behind the veneer of the digital world.
The devastating impact of cyberbullying, exemplified by Esha’s case, necessitates immediate legislative action. While current Malaysian laws address online harassment and obscenities, they lack provisions for harsher penalties, specifically related to cyberbullying resulting in fatalities.
The proposed penalties would include significant fines and prison sentences for offenders, aiming to deter such harmful behaviour and ensure justice for victims.
Additionally, legislation needs to emphasise education and prevention efforts to empower and equip individuals, families and communities to recognise, report, and combat online thuggery effectively.
Beliawanis MCA advocates for age-appropriate enhancements in penalties, recognising the varying degrees of accountability based on the perpetrator’s age.
This approach aims to create safer digital and physical environments by holding cyberbullies accountable for their actions.
By fostering a culture of respect and digital citizenship, Beliawanis MCA hopes to prevent lives unnaturally cut short, and mitigate the prevalence and impact of online physical and sexual threats and harassments linked with cyberbullying, as we endeavour to create safer digital and physical environments for all.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Ova.
