2 days ago, it was reported that the influencer, Shalini Periasamy, who was arrested in regards to the cyberbullying incident that led to content creator, Esha, taking her own life, was fined RM100. The late Esha’s mum later shared her disappointment over the punishment, to which Malaysians echoed her sentiments.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has since shared his thoughts on how the RM100 fine does not fit the crime.
Taking to his Twitter page, the Minister shared that the definition of the term ‘cyberbullying’ needs to be reexamined in order for the authorities to come up with more appropriate punishments to bring justice.
He wrote, “Laws related to cyberbullying need to be tightened!”
“I regret such a fine, which to us seems small. But, I was made to understand by the Attorney-General’s Department that this is based on the evidence that has been collected,”
“As mentioned by Yang Berhormat Gobind Singh Deo, Digital Minister, and Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Azaline, Minister of Law, we need to reexamine firstly, the definition of cyberbullying and secondly, what would be an appropriate fine,” he said.
He also brought up how netizens have pointed out that the influencer in question had allegedly shown signs of being unremorseful in regards to her actions that had led to someone taking their own life, when she was walking out of the courthouse yesterday (July 17).
“I have observed several comments, including on TikTok by other influencers who are upset not only with the fine but with the attitude of this offender who seemed to have no remorse for what she has done, which is ultimately believed to have caused the death of another influencer,”
“I think this is a very wrong attitude. And I’m disappointed. I dare say, we have to work very hard to strengthen the laws now,” he added.
You can check out his post here:
Watch on TikTok
What do you think would be an appropriate punishment for the crime? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
Also read: 2 Journalists Allegedly Threatened by the Same Cyberbullies Involved in the Late Esha’s Case
