tags - Sinar Daily

Shamsul stated that increased freedom of expression and stronger public engagement have fostered a healthier political environment, where criticism is no longer viewed solely as a threat but as a sign of democratic maturity.

Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. Photo by Bernama

The government’s recent proposal to set a minimum age of 16 for social media use has drawn widespread public attention, prompting debate from multiple angles - responsibility, safety, present realities and the future of the younger generation.

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the incident reflected a new and worrying trend in which individuals who voiced critical views become vulnerable to retaliation, including violence.

A photo taken on September 25, 2024 in Oslo, Norway shows replicas of the obverse and reverse of the Nobel Peace Prize medal displayed at The Norwegian Nobel Institute. The winner of the Nobel Peace Prize will be announced in Oslo on October 10, 2025. (Photo by Jonathan NACKSTRAND / AFP)

A man walks past film posters displayed for the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) at the Busan Cinema Center in Busan on September 17, 2025. (Photo by Jung Yeon-je / AFP)

Tian Chua said the response by some officers reflected poorly on the mall’s image. Photo source: Instagram / @umi/irahstories. Edited via Canva.

Hilman, who was also the Gombak Setia assemblyman, said the government’s approach to criticism had eroded public trust and exposed a disconnect between its rhetoric and governance.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. Photo by Bernama

Sabah State Leadership Council (MPN) chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud