Middle path difficult if hate speech prevails
Published on: Sunday, December 11, 2022
Text Size:
Pic by NicePNG (For Illustration Purpose Only)
Many governments acknowledge the aggravating factor when politicians engage in hate speech, so some legal systems have increased punishment for offenders.
Malaysia does not differentiate offenders based on their level of influence, which could have contributed to the indifference shown by certain politicians who continue to participate in hate politics.
That said, promoting animosity and hatred is not a matter that is taken lightly by the government.
Section 4 of the Election Offences Act is meant to prevent voters from being influenced to vote based on racial and religious sentiments, as well as protect people from related hostilities.
If people are found guilty under Section 4, they may be barred from voting, or if they were elected as representatives to the legislature, the seats would need to be vacated.
Despite the legal repercussions, it would appear that political parties have engaged in identity politics by inflaming racial and religious sensitivities.
Professor Emeritus Teo Kok Seong attributes racial and religious tensions to certain factors, such as divisive speech among certain politicians.
This has influenced people to adopt a hostile attitude to other groups based on race, religion and nationality.
This is indicated by the public’s engagement in online hate speech, acts of incitement and threats to public order pre- and post-15th General Election.
The government understands the weight of the problem, which is why government attempted to table the National Harmony & Reconciliation Bill of 2014.
When Pakatan Harapan took over governance in 2018, it started its legislative initiative through the Anti-Discrimination Bill, the National Harmony and Reconciliation Commission Bill, and the Racial and Religious Hate Crimes Bill.
These bills did not come to fruition due to several factors, including criticism that these laws would be misused and abused, apart from a lack of political will to push the legislation through.
It is high time that we move away from employing polarising narratives to create a more democratic Malaysia because true democracy cannot be achieved when people are influenced by fear rather than guided by knowledge when they go to the polls.
We share a bond with each other and must respect the rights of others, as well as observe our responsibilities.
Our leaders can lead by example through their thoughts, statements and actions in this matter.
So what path will we take?
I hope we will find the strength to walk the middle path so that we may build on our common values to forge a better future for all Malaysians.
Dr Murni Wan Mohd Nor
Senior lecturer, Department of Government and Civilisation Studies, Faculty of Human Ecology, and Research associate, Institute of Social Sciences Universiti Putra Malaysia
- The views expressed here are the views of the writer Dr Murni Wan Mohd Nor and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express.
- If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
ADVERTISEMENT
