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The Online Security Association (OSAG) has urged the government to set up an independent commission to oversee the implementation of the Internet Security Act once it is passed.
The group said that for the regulation of online content to be fair, the regulator must be free from political or commercial interference. The agency advised against handing over the implementation of the law to the Ministry of Communications or the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“Currently, MCMC lacks the necessary independence and expertise to effectively manage internet security,” it said in a statement. The group includes 17 local organizations working on freedom of expression, children’s rights, gender equality and women’s rights, as well as researcher Maha Balakrishnan.
CSOs include the Center for Independent Journalism, Voice of the Children, Women’s Center for Change, Sisters in Islam and Sinar Project. The group said an independent, multi-person commission should have the necessary expertise, as well as the independence and authority to oversee and implement the law.
It said the commission should include community representatives and experts, and ensure fair and transparent enforcement, balancing public safety and the protection of human rights. “This group should be empowered to regulate social media companies and internet service providers, ensuring that users’ rights to privacy and freedom of expression are protected,” he said.
The group also recommended that online violence be decriminalized under the Penal Code. “Laws against cyberbullying should be the subject of a separate, specific law that meets three criteria: clearly distinguishing between adults and children, clearly defining the harm caused, and ensuring that the sanctions are necessary and proportionate to the harm caused,” he said.
He urged governments to ensure that any legislation effectively protects children and society, while being vigilant against excessive measures that could stifle public debate, violate privacy or restrict access to information. “Achieving this balance is essential for a safe and open digital environment where children are protected and society respects fundamental freedoms,” he said.
On Monday, Deputy Minister for Justice and Institutional Reform Mr Kula Segaran said the Online Safety Bill, which aims to ensure a safe online environment for all Malaysians, would be introduced to the Cabinet soon.
