"716 Complaints On Social Networking Websites In 2011"

KUALA LUMPUR (Malaysia), March 21 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have received 716 complaints on content of social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter last year, says Information Communications and Culture Minister, Dr Rais Yatim. Of the total, 289 complaints were offensive or threatening, 247 false, 40 obscene and indecent, 124 hacking while 16 were others. "MCMC also received 1,112 complaints on websites, blogs and emails," he said on Wednesday, replying to a supplementary question from Noraini Ahmad, member of parliament. Rais also said that MCMC also received 693 complaints relating to phishing (attempts to steal data from data groups). "Impersonation, fraud and abuse of social networking sites are committed for the sake of excitement and to broaden views without taking into account the negative aspects arising from the act." "Some members of society forget that we have constraints and way of life which should be based on pure and religious values and customs." He said that no less than 15 cases had been prosecuted in court adding the people still need to be educated and briefed on the matter. "The use of television and having talks and preventive measures led to a drop in the number of cases. Parents and society must also play a role in enforcing the social constraints," he added. Asked whether the ministry plans to monitor or restrict Facebook accounts due to abuse, he said contents or comments made by users did not undergo screening, approval or evaluation by authorities including MCMC. He added that network content is subjected to laws like Sedition Act 1948, Penal Code, Evidence Act 1950 and Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. "Other than prosecution in court, MCMC also blocked access to websites to raise public awareness on social and technology issues faced by Internet users." -- BERNAMA