Rights Groups Advise Fahmi To Be Mindful With His Words After Livestream “Threat”
Rights group said communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil could have used better words to convey his message else he would be perceived as limiting the freedom of speech.
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Rights groups have advised communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil to be more careful with his choice of words after a controversial statement he made online.
During a TikTok live stream, Fahmi told viewers to watch what they commented as they were being monitored by the authorities and might get a visit from the police.
After the initial criticism, Fahmi claimed he was only warning viewers not to use provocative remarks about the 3Rs (race, religion, and royalty) during the live stream.
READ MORE: Fahmi Rubbishes Claims He Threatened TikTok Live Viewers, Just Reminder For 3R Comments
According to Free Malaysia Today, National Human Rights Society (Hakam) president M Ramachelvan said Fahmi could have made his comments more appropriately.
He said Fahmi should have used his position to answer the comments left by viewers instead of threatening them with police action.
Threats by government ministers against freedom of expression leave a negative perception of the unity government (which has a duty) to uphold this fundamental constitutional right guaranteed to citizens.
National Human Rights Society (Hakam) president M Ramachelvan
Ramachelvam added that the issue was ironic since Fahmi used to be critical of those who misused laws such as the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to limit the freedom of expression.
Sevan Doraisamy of Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) echoed Ramachelvam and agreed that Fahmi should have been more cautious with his words to avoid being perceived as threatening dissenters or limiting their freedom of speech.
He said discussions concerning 3R issues and government policies should not be unnecessarily restricted unless it instigates violence or “lawless actions.”
He believes inclusive and constructive conversations on sensitive topics will help achieve societal progress.
By actively safeguarding and promoting the principles of free speech, fostering open dialogue and facilitating the exchange of ideas, they can demonstrate their commitment to the democratic values and aspirations of rakyat Malaysia.
Sevan Doraisamy of Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram)
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