As Malaysia celebrated its 51st anniversary of independence this past weekend, news has emerged of the government blocking Malaysia Today, a very popular and controversial political news site.
Malaysia Today was founded in August 2004 by Raja Petra Kamarudin, who still serves as its editor. Currently hosted in Singapore, Malaysia Today is usually critical of both the governing and opposition parties. The portal has reportedly received almost 100 million hits and ranks in the top 10 political sites in Malaysia.
While we are used to hearing such stories in places like China, the move to block Malaysia Today is a very surprising and unfortunate step backwards. Why? Because the Malaysian government vowed to "ensure no Internet censorship," under the ‘MSC Malaysia 10 Point Bill of Guarantees’ when it launched its Multimedia Super Corridor strategy back in 1996.
The Malaysian Home Minister, Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar justified the decision at a press conference at Parliament lobby, "When they publish things that are libellous, slanderous or defamatory, it is natural for the SKMM to act against these websites whenever necessary."
"We do not intend to curtail people’s freedom or right to express themselves. Everyone is subjected to the law, even websites and blogs," Albar added.
All 19 of Malaysia’s Internet Service Providers were ordered by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to block access to the Malaysia Today news portal.
"It is being blocked because we found that some of the comments on the Web site were insensitive, bordering on incitement," explained MCMC chief operating officer, Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi.
However, you can still access the controversial site at a mirror site.
Blocking Freedom of Speech
Malaysia Today Blocked by Malaysian Government
Trend Themes
1. Censorship of Internet Content - Current incident of Malaysia blocking access to Malaysia Today raises concerns about censorship of internet content.
2. Freedom of Speech in Digital Era - Restriction of access to news portals like Malaysia Today highlights the need to extend freedom of speech and expression to digital platforms.
3. Internet Governance and Policy - The incident of blocking Malaysia Today warrants a discussion on internet governance and the need for transparent policies.
Industry Implications
1. Media and Entertainment - Media and entertainment industry can capitalize on addressing the issue of freedom of speech on digital platforms and create new content that highlights this issue.
2. Technology - Technology industry can take up the mantle of developing solutions to bypass censorship of internet content.
3. Journalism - Journalism industry needs to create awareness, educate and inform citizens about their digital rights and freedom of speech on the internet.