KUALA LUMPUR – Legal action may be taken by governments against digital platforms that fail to protect users and their personal data, should a proposal by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to Asean member states be adopted.
The prime minister said Southeast Asian countries could consider applying legislation on data privacy and users’ rights to any digital entity in the region.
This is in light of digital advancements globally and within the bloc, and to ensure a safe and secure cyberspace, he said in his keynote address at the First Asean Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN1), held virtually, today.
He said digital platforms could be required to be more accountable, and this may see them taken to court so long as they have control over their products.
“Asean could also consider stronger legislation pertaining to hate speech that, among others, compels digital platforms to remove and/or mete out punishment for any speech wilfully promoting violence and attacks.
“This can be verbal or physical, including but not limited to harassment and threats against a person or persons based on their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality.”
He said these are among the areas under present laws that need to be reviewed to accommodate new technologies and challenges, especially within the parameters of security in cyberspace.
“Technology has evolved at a rapid pace, and so has the emergence of new cyber threats and challenges. Consequently, there must be a mechanism to enable existing laws to be applied to cyberspace, and new laws to be enacted if the need arises.”
Regional fund, online platform for SMEs
Muhyiddin also suggested that a special fund be set up by Asean to improve digital and internet infrastructure.
He proposed an online platform connecting small and medium enterprises, as well as artisans, across the region, enabling them to sell original goods directly to consumers and easing transactions.
“A board of trustees with members appointed from Asean countries could determine the company that will be set up to maintain and run the platform.”
On Covid-19, he said it is not an overstatement to claim that the pandemic has pushed Asean states to move faster down the digital path.
He said the health crisis has accelerated the growth of the digital economy in Malaysia.
“The Malaysian government has identified the digital economy as one of the key economic growth areas to realise our national commitment to elevate the country as a nation of sustainable growth, while ensuring fair and equitable distribution.”
On cybercrime, Muhyiddin said there is no acceptable reason for Asean members to fall short in curbing it, stressing that governments should have more resources and determination than syndicates.
National enforcement agencies must be equipped with state-of-the-art tools to fight such crime, and be fully integrated regionwide to effectively address cross-border transgressions, he said.
ADGMIN1, which is hosted by Malaysia, takes place today and tomorrow. – The Vibes, January 21, 2021
