Set up special task force to address social media issues, MCMC told

A government backbencher on Monday called on the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to set up a special task force to address issues of defamation, libel and slander on social media, which can threaten national security and harmony.

Datuk Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (BN-Tanah Merah) said the setting up of the task force would enable full attention be given in detecting the perpetrators involved in disseminating false information and news.

"In today's information technology environment, one posting, either on Facebook, Twitter or SMS, can create disharmony and tension among the people in the country. This is something that cannot be compromised," he said when debating the Supply Bill 2016 at the Dewan Rakyat sitting, Monday.

Ikmal Hisham said the task force would also be responsible for overseeing the news portals or blogs that knowingly publishing false news, particularly involving the government.

Meanwhile, he also proposed the government to upgrade the Counter-Terrorism Division to a department instead of being a division under the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Special Branch.

At the same time, Ikmal Hisham said the division should be strengthened with the participation of a unit, responsible for detecting money laundering, which was now under the Commercial Crime Investigation Department.

"These measures will enable the Counter-Terrorism Division to quickly detect any funds credited for terrorist activities," he said.

He also proposed the setting up of a one-stop collection centre for food and basic necessities, equipped with transport facilities, to facilitate immediate delivery of assistance to flood-prone states.

A population census should also be carried out to determine the expected number of victims to facilitate authorities in identifying the exact number of victims and to ensure adequate supply of aid and assistance, he added.