MY's new digital comms minister to meet social media firms on misinformation issue

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Fahmi Fadzil has been named the new digital communications minister. At the top of his to-do list is combating the spread of fake, misleading, and extremist content, especially on social media, the New Straits Times reported. According to NST, he labelled the situation as worrying, especially with recent news reports about racially-charged May 13 TikTok videos circulating on social media.

Aside from TikTok, Fahmi is also meeting representatives from other social media companies to discuss concerns over misinformation and extremist content. He said during a press conference today that after the meeting, he will be able to comprehend the issue better, especially in the area of regulatory framework, The Star said.

TikTok was recently called up by MCMC and the Royal Malaysia Police to explain the situation. MCMC previously said that at least three video clips about the May 13 1969 racial riots were paid for and are currently circulating on the platform.

MCMC recently also reminded Malaysians to refrain from airing hateful views that involve race and religion shortly after the elections ended. The May 13 TikTok videos reportedly contained anti-Chinese messages and falsely claimed DAP's political dominance should Pakatan Harapan be allowed to form the government, among other provocative topics.

Prior to his appointment by prime minister Anwar Ibrahim, Fahmi was the director of communications for Parti Keadilan Rakyat. According to Bernama, Fahmi joined PKR in 2010 and served as political secretary to Nurul Izzah Anwar for three years. She was then Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament and PKR VP.

During the 14th General Election in 2018, Fahmi won the Lembah Pantai seat, defeating Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin. He also retained the seat during the recent elections, Bernama added. Annuar Musa, Saifuddin Abdullah, and Gobind Singh Deo previously helmed the role as multimedia ministers.

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