SUPP urges stern action against online hate speech, defamation
Adam Yii – Photo by Chimon Upon
MIRI (May 13): Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP) has called for stern action to be taken against those responsible for spreading hate speech and defamation on social media platforms.
In a statement today, SUPP Central Publicity and Information Secretary cum Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii expressed full support for legal action against such behavior, urging the public to take the dangers of online speech seriously.
'Cyberspace is not above the law. Every online post must carry legal and moral accountability. While expressing opinions, the public must return to reason and facts, rather than letting emotions override the truth. No one should become a tool for online violence,' he said.
Yii was referring to a recent Facebook post a user, which allegedly insulted the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and his family, drawing widespread public attention.
He said the party fully supports the police reports lodged simultaneously in Kuching, Sibu, and Miri by the Premier's political secretaries, describing it as a strong indication of the government's zero-tolerance policy against malicious online attacks.
'The post not only contained insulting language but also personal attacks against the Premier's family. This clearly crossed the boundaries of free speech and constituted defamation with potentially seditious undertones,' Yii said.
'This kind of behavior undermines the social harmony and multicultural coexistence that Sarawak is known for. Left unchecked, it may deepen political and racial divisions and even disrupt public order,' Yii warned.
He also expressed concern for young people, who form the majority of social media users. Yii cautioned that frequent exposure to emotional, vulgar, or false content may distort their worldview.
'They may start to believe that vulgarity equals bravery and spreading lies equals freedom. In the long run, this damages civic values and weakens the foundation of our nation,' he said. Abang Johari Tun Openg adam yii cyberbullying hate speech insult
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