The Malaysian government used emergency powers imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic to implement a new “fake news” law. In doing so, it circumvented the Malaysian parliament, which was suspended earlier this year as part of the state of emergency. The move comes as the country struggles with a high number of COVID-19 cases and as well as growing criticism of the government’s response.
Authorities announced the regulation on March 11, and it came into effect the next day. The government justified the law by stating that it was necessary to combat misinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new regulation prescribes fines of up to 100,000 Malaysian ringgit (about 20,000 euros) and a three-year prison sentence for creating, publishing or circulating “fake news” related to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the state of emergency itself. It allows law enforcement access to personal data and encryption codes, as well as the capability to search any electronic device they deem necessary to conduct their investigation, along with fines for anyone refusing to cooperate.