Whip those who make sensitive, insulting statements - MP

The government has been urged to impose whipping on those found guilty of making statements that are sensitive to races and insulting to religions.

Ahmad Lai Bujang (BN-Sibuti) said harsher penalties should be imposed on online offenders rather than just the current fine and imprisonment.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Joseph Kurup said the government was only responsible for implementing intervention measures via education and public awareness programmes.

"We provide the people with facilities but they have to be responsible for what they say. If there is abuse, then firm action will be taken," he said in response to a proposal from Ahmad Lai in parliament here Thursday.

The proposal was also supported by Loke Siew Fook (DAP-Seremban) and Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (BN-Bintulu).

The government was closely monitoring sensitive issues discussed in social media sites via the National Unity and National Integration Department in collaboration with other agencies.

Kurup said the government's intervention measures include the creation of the Unity Squad to create awareness and educate the public via cross-cultural programmes.

"In addition, efforts are being undertaken to enhance 1,781 Tadika Perpaduan classes to foster unity among children, and spread multi-cultural education to students," he added.