Amendments to the Penal Code to address harassment, insults and bullying
11 Aug 2025 04:30pm
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. Bernama FILE PIX
PUTRAJAYA - The government has introduced amendments to the Penal Code to address bullying, harassment, insults and identity misuse, including those committed online.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said noted that the amendments were introduced to the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025 (Act A1750), which was approved by the King on Feb 25 this year and gazetted on March 7.
"It introduces new sections, 507B to 507G, specifically to address bullying committed by any means and methods, including online.
"These amendments provide for offences related to harassment, threats, bullying, insults and misuse of identity information, including situations that may lead to suicide attempts as well as cases where the person provoked attempts or commits suicide,' she said in a statement here today.
She said offenders are liable to imprisonment for a term that may be extended up to 10 years, and a fine or both.
"…it is the responsibility of every citizen to study and comply with these laws that are now in effect,' she said.
She advised the public to obtain information directly from the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department or the Legal Aid Department for clarification on the amendments.
"Keep in mind that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. A clear understanding of one's rights and responsibilities under the law is the first step towards building a safer, more ethical and humane society,' she added.
She also called on all ministries, agencies, organisations and institutions to consistently update their employees' knowledge of current legal developments and to ensure internal policies and procedures comply with the relevant provisions. - BERNAMA
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