Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Bernama photo
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says the government will not restrict or take action against any inaccurate news reports, as long as they do not disturb public order.
He said the anti-fake news law would be given a new and clear definition, so that the public and local media practitioners would have a clear understanding of what constituted ‘fake news’.
“In the previous regime, we felt there was restriction. Some newspapers may be pro or against something, but we will not block their reports, as long as the reports carry weight.
“However, news reports that are meant to cause tension will not be accepted,” he said during a briefing session with RTM and Bernama at his home here today.
Dr Mahathir said although the new government led by Pakatan Harapan supported the “freedom of the press”, there should, however, be a limit.
“If they deliberately create reports to cause chaos or tension, we will deal with them using special laws,” he added. – Bernama