BACHOK: The opposition especially DAP will never agree with decisions made by the government, and find ways to go against every initiative, even if it could spell a positive outcome for many, in this instance, a new law on fake news.
International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the opposition especially DAP have not realised that the initiatives taken are for unity and security purposes.
He said DAP veteran leader Lim Kit Siang’s claim that the government would use the new law to harass and persecute political opponents, is just one of the opposition’s latest political tactic.
“His view is not the same as the world’s view. The DAP veteran leader simply comes out with such remarks without realising that the fake news issue has been the topic which has caused concern for many.
“I believe the government is in the right track when it decided to enact the new law. This should have been done a long time ago," said Mustapa.
Mustafa, who is also Kelantan Umno chief, told reporters this before attending a special dialogue with Universiti Malaysia Kelantan staff here Thursday.
Mustapa said a new law for fake news must be introduced because many irresponsible quarters are latching on the general election season to attract voters with false news.
“These people will do whatever necessary to achieve victory. The introduction of the new law is not meant to prevent people from giving their views or voicing their opinions but it is more to stop the irresponsible party from spreading false information," he said.
Lim was reported as saying that the government’s announcement of a special committee to formulate laws to tackle fake news would not inspire any public confidence.
He was reported as saying that he feared the new law will be used to persecute the government’s political opponents.