Not all social media content removed on govt's request, said minister Teo Nie Ching

Not all content taken down on social media, including TikTok, were made by the request of the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) or the Malaysian government, said deputy communications minister Teo Nie Ching. 

Teo said that the removal of content by platform providers is subject to its own consideration and evaluation. It is also based on reports of abuse from platform users. 

The minister explained that the 'Government Takedown Request Report' stated that TikTok received 1,862 requests from the Malaysian government. However, the report also showed that the total number of applications received for content removal was 6,231.

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This means that not all requests to take down content are made by the MCMC or the Malaysian government, added Teo during her speech at the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday. 

She said that the report also showed that 2,514 online contents were taken down for violating community guidelines. Meanwhile, 2,970 were taken action against for violating local laws and 747 pieces of content did not see action taken by TikTok. 

This shows that if the platform does not feel that a certain content violates the laws or guidelines, they will not take down the requested content, said Teo. 

In addition, Teo said that if there is any content that has been taken down by a social media platform provider, users are encouraged to contact the relevant social media platform provider directly to find out the reason for the removal. 

In tandem, Teo said that the government is committed to protecting internet users in Malaysia from harmful online activities. These harmful online activities include crime, misuse, threats and provocation. 

Media freedom has been a big topic for the Malaysian government as of late. Earlier in June, prime minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that the government is firm in its stance to guarantee media freedom in the country

However, media freedom cannot be used to undermine the country's unity and harmony, including stirring up 3R issues (race, religion and royalty). 

During the same speech, the Prime Minister said that Malaysia is capable of becoming a great and brave nation if its journalists can focus on reporting with the aim of ensuring peace and highlighting the country's progress and goals. 

The goals include issues related to peace, economy, culture, religion and digital advancements. 

Photo courtesy Teo Nie Ching, Facebook

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