Revamp hate speech laws for clearer enforcement - Think tank

SHAH ALAM - There is an urgent need to reassess existing laws on hate speech, said the Social and Economic Research Initiative (SERI) a non-partisan think-tank dedicated to addressing issues of inequality.

It pointed out that there are currently no comprehensive law regulating hate speech in the country and it is dealt with by several laws which are the Sedition Act, the Communications and Multimedia Act, the Printing Presses and Publications Act and the Penal Code.

"SERI calls for a thorough review of existing hate speech legislation due to its vagueness, which can lead to inconsistent enforcement.

"In March of this year, the National Unity Minister announced the ongoing study of a Harmony Charter, intended to provide a comprehensive framework for fostering unity across the nation.

"While SERI wholeheartedly endorses the implementation of this charter, it is crucial that beyond mere symbolism, it is developed into a tangible set of actions with meaningful impact on the nation," it said in a statement.

It also said the Harmony Charter must be complemented by the introduction of the National Harmony and Reconciliation Bill, originally introduced in 2019 as a Private Member’s Bill.

The Bill aims to establish the National Harmony and Reconciliation Commission, charged with the vital role of fostering national harmony, unity, reconciliation, integration, equality, and non-discrimination.

"Additionally, the Commission is mandated to raise awareness and provide education on these matters and it should also comprise diverse representatives from various ethnic and religious backgrounds in Malaysia.

This inclusive composition would enable them to effectively advise, assist and make recommendations to the government on matters crucial to national unity," it added.