PHNOM PENH: Other than the right to a free and open channel of information, the people also had a right to be protected from threats arising from irresponsible use of the cyber space, said Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
He said the abuse of cyber space and spread of false information was a threat faced not only by Malaysia but also other countries in this era of hyperconnectivity.
“There are times when abuse that occurs in one country has a negative impact on other nations,” he said after a bilateral meeting with Cambodian Information Minister Dr Khieu Kanharith here yesterday.
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Sor Kheng shared the views of Ahmad Shabery when the latter called on him earlier.
The Cambodian cyber space had once been an arena for irresponsible parties, including those from neighbouring countries to commit cyber crime.
According to Ahmad Shabery, a report on the hacking of an airline’s website Monday and previously, the hacking of Sony Pictures Entertainment computer system, resulting in millions of dollars in losses were examples of the need for the process to be reviewed.
“The spread of inaccurate information during the flood crisis (in Malaysia) at the end of last year caused uncertainty and restlessness among the public.
“Worse still, if not curbed, it could endanger security and the lives of victims as aid and assets could be mobilised based on the wrong information,” he said.
He said that in this case, a responsible government had to protect its people from threats which arose from the abuse of the cyber media.
“We will study the necessary measures, whether from the point of the law, technology, education or awareness which could strengthen safety in cyber space.
“The safety of the public and prosperity of the nation are our priorities in conducting this process,” he said. — Bernama