Internet should not be censored, says Dr M

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 — Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today the Internet should not be censored in any way, and it is wrong to do so although some things need to be disciplined.

“For example, there is too much violence coming through on the Internet.
That, I think, we have a right to ban but as far as political thinking, if you are not instigating violence and things like that, I think the Internet should not be censored in any way,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after delivering his speech at the Third Annual Malaysian Student Leaders Summit here.

He said that during his time of administration, he had given the undertaking that the government would not censor the Internet when it started the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) years ago.

“So maybe that was an undertaking given by me during my time. I don't know whether that will commit the present government,” he added.

Yesterday, Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said the government was looking to put up Internet filter to stop access to undesirable websites.

However, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said the government had no intention of monitoring and censoring the Internet contents as the move would not only be ineffective but would also cause public dissatisfaction.

Meanwhile, commenting on the Selangor government's decision yesterday for self-regulation on the sale of alcohol, Dr Mahathir said Malaysia was a multiracial country and people should not curb other races from doing the things permitted by their race and religion.

“We also should not try to impose one's religious views or values on other religions,” he added. – Bernama

Comment: I guess the info minister needs to reconsider his intention. The current and ex premier oppose the move. There are many other things that need more attention rather than this cheap popularity stunt... If they think BN or Umno can be revived by filtering the internet... than u are sorely wrong I'm afraid. People left BN for many reasons. Study the blunders made by your friends..