KUALA LUMPUR – Addressing the recent suicide of social media influencer Rajeswary Appahu, also known as Esha, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said that new laws should be considered to place responsibility on platform owners.
Gobind told Scoop that the issue, discussed alongside Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, is part of the government’s efforts to find solutions to cyberbullying cases.
He acknowledged that Esha’s death, driven by the pressures of cyberbullying, stands as a distinctive case.
“I have insisted that firm and immediate action should be taken in cases of cyberbullying, especially since the new digital world requires a fresh approach to the way we conduct business, education, and daily life.
“Cases of cyberbullying must be taken seriously and addressed promptly. We must ensure that the law is enforced to prevent any misuse, and if it occurs, swift action must be taken.
“We need to ensure that the platforms established are secure from the perspective of cybersecurity and personal data protection, and most importantly, that they are not abused by any party.
“Despite existing laws, particularly the Communications and Multimedia Act, the Penal Code, and the Computer Crimes Act, efforts are being made to expand internet infrastructure to enable all segments of society to benefit from new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).”
“This is in line with the government’s efforts to ensure Malaysia is not left behind in technological development,” he said.
“I also suggest that new laws be considered to place responsibility on platform owners to ensure that no abuse occurs and that if it does, immediate action can be taken to prevent it from continuing,” he added.
This, he said, is part of the government’s effort to send a clear signal that they are serious about finding a solution to this problem, with all relevant parties playing an important role.
He added that the ministry will support the efforts of the Communications Ministry to strengthen existing legislation or introduce new laws in this direction in the future.
“I am confident that the authorities will take appropriate action and justice will be served for the victims. My ministry is also ready to assist if any help is needed.”
Yesterday, Fahmi said TikTok must take responsibility for Esha’s death and that he had spoken to representatives of the social media platform regarding the incident.
Fahmi also added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed serious dissatisfaction over the incident, instructing both the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and police to take stern action and stop the prevalence of cyberbullying.
Following a recent meeting with ministries and the Attorney-General’s Chambers, Fahmi said he informed the cabinet of three main measures to curb cyberbullying. These include amending existing laws and reviewing the need for a new Cyberbullying Act.
Esha passed away on July 5, reportedly after facing a month of online bullying.
Authorities confirmed that two TikTok accounts were involved in making vulgar and threatening remarks towards Esha – @dulal_brotherss and @alphaquinnsha.
Before her death, Esha lodged a police report at the Dang Wangi police station, detailing the violent threats made against her.
She reported that a TikTok account with the handle @dulal_brotherss hosted a livestream on June 30 with around 700 viewers, during which participants made rape and death threats against her.
Recently, police arrested two individuals suspected of cyberbullying Esha under Section 506 of the Penal Code, Section 233 of the MCMC Act 1998, and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955. – July 13, 2024