internet code of ethics soon

A code of ethics for Internet users, especially bloggers, is in the offing as the government moves to curb ‘misuse’ of the medium. 

Issuing yet another warning, Deputy Energy, Water and Communications Minister Shaziman Abu Mansor told the Dewan Rakyat: “The government’s leniency does not give Internet users freedom to misuse the facility to insult the country and its leaders.”

Among those being watched are website owners, operators and writers.

Shaziman was replying Idris Haron (BN-Tangga Batu) who asked what action the government is taking to control bloggers.

Idris also asked whether blogging could be considered a public channel of information that would require a new law for its control, as done with the print media.

Shaziman said existing laws are sufficient “to handle offences”, but that the government plans to introduce a code of ethics.

"The ministry will soon be introducing this code of ethics through the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission," he said.

He however did not state as to when the code would be implemented.

Idris, in a supplementary question, asked why the ministry has been unable to take direct action against “irresponsible blogs” such as Malaysia Today.

In July, the political website had posted articles deemed to have disparaged the King and Islam, and Umno lodged a police report.

Idris also asked if the ministry would introduce a new system whereby the government could prevent ‘negative news’ from reaching the public.

According to Shaziman, the ministry has placed a deputy prosecutor in the MCMC to facilitate investigations.

He added that not many Malaysians read political blogs because they are more interested in websites that instill family values and entrepreneurship.