In the light of the growing prevalence of cyberbullying, hate speech, online harassment and other harmful digital content, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, Suhakam, wishes to remind all members of the public that the right to freedom of expression carries corresponding duties and responsibilities.
While individuals are entitled to express their views and opinions, such expression must not infringe upon the rights, dignity, safety or wellbeing of others.
Suhakam recalls that international human rights standards, including Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the principles reflected in the Article 20(2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, recognise that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it carries duties and responsibilities.
Expressions that incite discrimination, hostility or violence, whether online or offline, undermine human dignity, threaten social cohesion and may warrant appropriate legal and regulatory responses consistent with human rights principles.
The increasing spread of hateful, threatening, discriminatory and abusive content online poses serious risks to individuals and society as a whole.
Beyond causing psychological and emotional harm to those targeted, such conduct can foster hostility, deepen social divisions, normalise prejudice and create an environment that is conducive to discrimination and violence.
Particularly alarming are instances where online discourse escalates into threats, calls for violence, or incitement against individuals and communities based on their identity, status or perceived differences.
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Suhakam unequivocally condemns all forms of cyberbullying, hate speech, threats of violence, and incitement to discrimination, hostility or harm. The normalisation of such behaviour in digital spaces undermines human dignity, social cohesion and public safety.
No individual should be subjected to intimidation, harassment or abuse for who they are, their beliefs or their circumstances.
Those who misuse social media and digital platforms to spread hatred, harass others or advocate violence must be held accountable for their actions.
Freedom of expression must never be invoked as a justification for conduct that threatens the rights and safety of others.
Where such actions contravene the law, appropriate and proportionate enforcement measures should be taken to ensure accountability and to deter future violations.
Suhakam therefore calls upon the government and relevant authorities to strengthen efforts to address online harm through effective enforcement of existing laws, enhanced digital safety measures, and greater public awareness on responsible online conduct.
At the same time, social media platforms, educational institutions, civil society organisations and the wider public must play an active role in promoting digital literacy, respectful engagement, and a culture of empathy and mutual respect.
The digital sphere must not become a sanctuary for hatred, intimidation or impunity.
It should remain a space where rights are exercised responsibly and where public discourse is guided by the principles of human dignity, equality, inclusivity and the rule of law.
Only through collective responsibility and accountability can we ensure that online spaces remain safe, respectful and conducive to constructive dialogue for all. – Suhakam
The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.
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