CYBERJAYA, July 3 — The Communications and Multimedia Ministry has appointed the Multimedia University (MMU) to conduct research on anti-cyberbullying laws, said its minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

He said the research would be completed within six months, this was necessary as cyberbullying cases in Malaysia had recently increased, leading to suicide cases.

"Cyberbullying is a crime that must be dealt with immediately. Currently, Malaysia has laws relating to the cyber world but there is no specific law (Act) on cyberbullying,” he told reporters after visiting MMU here today.

Saifuddin said the research will involve studies whether Malaysia needs a special act related to cyber bullying, as implemented in Singapore, the Philippines and some developed countries, as well as looking at the implementation of anti-cyber laws in other countries.

He said it would involve consultations with stakeholders including the Attorney-General's Chambers the Communications and Multimedia Commission, CyberSecurity Malaysia and the Bar Council.

"After six months, if all parties are convinced that the country needs anti-cyberbullying laws, then the content, the types of offences and the types of punishment that will be contained in the act will be detailed,” he said.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin said in a discussion with MMU today, the Ministry and the University had agreed to collaborate in implementing a digital media user literacy campaign to encourage netizens in Malaysia to use their devices ethically and to be aware of their rights.

At the event today in conjunction with his visit, Saifuddin also conveyed a message via live streaming to 1,250 MMU freshmen who registered on June 29 including 65 international students in 60 countries.

In his message, Saifuddin advised the new students to enjoy their learning environment even in a different atmosphere with the Covid-19 preventive measures and gain as much knowledge as possible. — Bernama