KUALA LUMPUR: A recent study on hate speech in Malaysia was conducted by the Institute for National Integration Research and Training, the Department of National Unity and Integration, and UPM Consultancy and Services Sdn Bhd.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, in a statement, emphasised the increasing importance of addressing hate speech as digital and information technology evolve.
"Social media has not only become the main platform for communication but also a medium for the dissemination and spread of hate speech," he said.
The study was funded under the Fourth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan by the Ministry of Economy and carried out from Dec 7, 2023 to June 6, 2024. It identified nine critical domains that need focus, including education, government policies, law enforcement and social media use, to curb hate speech.
The study proposed several strategies, such as enacting laws to control the spread of hate speech, launching public education campaigns and collaborating with non-governmental organisations.
It also recommended special training programmes for media practitioners to ensure responsible reporting and management of online platforms.