King: stern actions against new media for slander, lies and distortion of facts

The Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin has expressed his disappointment that slander, lies and distortion of facts still prevailed in the new media.

Tuanku Mizan said freedom of speech was not an excuse for any party to demean others to the extent of inflaming conflict and inciting racial sentiments.

“At the same time, the authorities must take stern actions against those involved,” he said in his Royal Address at the opening of the third session of the 12th Parliament.

“All parties involved must realize that no religion condones such actions.
“We urge them to cease committing these irresponsible acts.”

Syed Hamid: Malaysia Today published slanderous articles

MCMC had instructed all Internet service providers to block access to Malaysia Today.

Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar said today that the prominent news portal Malaysia Today had been banned because it published "libelous, defamatory and slanderous" content.

"I think we don't intend to curtail people's freedom and right to give information and debate, but when you publish content that is libelous, defamatory and slanderous to other people I think it is only natural we take action," he said.

He said Malaysia Today had ignored warnings against publishing "slanderous" articles.

"So many warnings and opportunities have been given and it is not heeded, so I am sure they have exercised their authority well under the law."