Keep an eye on election candidates, public urged

KUALA LUMPUR: The public should play their role as responsible citizen and report any non-compliance with the law among candidates contesting in the six state polls, says Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

He said the public should also alert the authorities should there be disturbing behaviour by the candidates.

Asked if action would be taken if a candidate’s social media campaigns incite anger or raise sensitive issues, he said accounts that violate social media platform guidelines would be suspended or deactivated, BK reported.

“If many complaints are received, then the social media platform itself will suspend or temporarily deactivate the accounts,” he said.

Speaking to reporters at the nomination centre for the Hulu Kelang, Gombak Setia, and Sungai Tua state seats in Selangor, he pointed out that the government is not involved in any account suspensions.

He said agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Royal Malaysia Police and the Election Commission would intensify their monitoring activities during the campaign period.

“A few days ago, I had a discussion with the Inspector-General of Police to see what needs to be done to strengthen this monitoring team, especially concerning issues related to religion, royalty and race (the 3Rs).

“Several matters have been agreed upon and will be implemented promptly.

“We also get the cooperation from various social media platforms, including TikTok, which are ready to assist in the monitoring to ensure the laws in the country are respected throughout the campaigning period,” he said.

On another matter, Fahmi said the government welcomed broadcasting media platforms to organise debate programmes for candidates.

He said such programmes, which could be broadcast on any official media platform and mainstream channels, was in line with the practice of democracy.

“We welcome all media to be involved in providing platforms for discussions or even debates so that campaigns will not be just about hurling accusations and masking each other.

“As a country that practices democracy, we must engage in mature politics, and this includes engaging in debates,” he said.