Kuala Lumpur: The Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday passed the Cybercrimes Bill 2026, which, among other things, provides for offences and penalties related to deepfakes and the dissemination of digitally manipulated intimate images created using sophisticated computer systems.
The Bill, which comprises 61 clauses relating to cybercrime, was passed by a majority voice vote after being debated by 48 government and opposition Members of Parliament.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the Bill does not grant absolute powers to the authorities or override any existing laws, including the Official Secrets Act 1972. Instead, it is subject to checks and balances as well as stringent legal procedures to safeguard the fundamental rights and privacy of the people.
He said the power to access computer systems and data also cannot be exercised arbitrarily, but must comply with procedures prescribed under the law.
"A notice to preserve computer data may only be issued if the investigating officer is satisfied that the data is reasonably required for the purposes of an investigation and that there is a risk of the data being deleted, altered or destroyed if immediate action is not taken.
"With regard to the disclosure of computer data, the government wishes to emphasise that it may only be carried out through a written notice to the person who owns or has control of the data, and is subject to the requirements of a lawful investigation," he said when winding up the debate on the Bill.
