PETALING JAYA: The level of hate speech on social media is reaching new depths and it’s time for a frank discussion on the matter, Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) commissioner Madeline Berma says.
Speaking at an online webinar organised by Komuniti Muslim Universal (KMU), Berma said it has become increasingly common to see social media users making fun of the Prophet Muhammad and Jesus.
“Besides making fun of religious beliefs, they are using terminology like ‘babi’ and things like that in reference to specific ethnic groups and beliefs … This is prevalent,” she said.
“As much as we do have unity in diversity and we respect the things that unite us, I’m really concerned (about this) …
“I think these are issues we really need to discuss openly.”
She also noted that racism in social media was one of the seven observed incidences of racial discrimination as per the Malaysia Racial Discrimination Report 2019 released by NGO Pusat Komas last July.
The online seminar titled “Freedom of Religion, Belief and Expression in Malaysia: Where Are We Headed?” was the final programme of KMU’s #Kebersamaan campaign which has been going on for the past few months.
Aimed at encouraging positive discourse on freedom of religion, belief and expression in Malaysia, the campaign also works to promote progressive values such as respect, non-discrimination and non-violence in a pluralistic Malaysian society.
In its campaign booklet launched today, KMU noted that hateful and divisive speeches or writings among the public, especially by influential figures, are on the rise and are a real challenge to social progression.
As these political, religious and community leaders possess social legitimacy and authority in the society, hate speech by these influencers have led to the formation of hostile public opinions that risk the progression of human rights and equality of the Malaysian society, said the NGO.
” … The role of divisive and hate speech motivated by political interests and religious fundamentalists, especially on social media, have instigated and exacerbated issues by scapegoating one racial and religious group,” it said.
“This has resulted in social divides based on racial and religious lines and led to the government reversing its decision to implement good policies.
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