KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 13): The proposed amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, including Section 233, are expected to be tabled in the current session of Parliament, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.

Section 233 concerns the improper use of network facilities or network services — a provision that has been long criticised by civil societies, activists and politicians including Bangi Member of Parliament Syahredzan Johan for being ambiguous and restricting freedom of expression.

The proposed amendments to the law also known as Act 588, subject to Cabinet approval, aim to clarify the scope and usage of the Act to ensure clear and fair enforcement that effectively addresses harmful online content, Teo noted.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has conducted several stakeholder engagement sessions, and the feedback “will be considered in finalising the proposed amendments", Teo told the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday during a question-and-answer session.

Apart from Syahredzan, the Centre for Independent Journalism Malaysia and Suara Rakyat Malaysia have also criticised Section 233 for its role in silencing dissent — an allegation the government has consistently denied.

On Wednesday, Teo said the ministry and MCMC are currently coordinating with the legal affairs division of the Prime Minister’s Department to avoid overlaps with the proposed Online Safety Bill.

However, the ministry does not intend to impose a moratorium on the use of Act 588 while awaiting parliamentary approval for the proposed amendments, describing the suggestion as "impractical", Teo said.

She reaffirmed that the Act will only be enforced to address harmful online contents that are obscene, false, or threatening to harass or intimidate others.

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