‘We have to accept this result’: Anwar says Malaysia to look at plans to improve sports performance after Olympics

Malaysian athletes accused of cyberbullying

Separately, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said on Saturday he was aware that some Malaysian Olympic athletes had complained that they had been cyberbullied by netizens.

Mr Fahmi warned that if certain comments had a negative impact on the mental health of Malaysian athletes, it could be considered cyberbullying, but he did not give examples.

“I have not received the latest report, therefore, I do not have the latest information (on the cyberbullying of athletes).

“Nevertheless, if the athletes feel their well-being has been affected, I will look into the matter as we sometimes see comments from netizens that are quite harsh, whether from fake accounts or not,” Fahmi was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.

Mr Fahmi added that athletes have faced instances of harsh online comments.

“(The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission) does receive reports from time to time, but it is important to note that some cyberbullies hide behind fake accounts. The actions of social media platforms are not effective in curbing fake accounts…,” Bernama quoted him as saying.

Local media previously reported that the country has no specific laws to deal with cyberbullying following the incident. Influencer Rajeswary Appahu passes away She committed suicide after allegedly being cyberbullied.

Malaysian authorities have since said they are considering proposals to amend the country’s penal code to introduce specific provisions for cyberbullying offences in the country.

In recent weeks, the Malaysian government has also taken Taking a tougher stance on big tech and social media companiesIt had announced that from 2025, all social media and internet messaging platforms with at least 8 million registered users in the country would have to apply for a category license or face penalties.

Mr Fahmi had previously told CNA that the new classified licensing system would strengthen Malaysia’s legislative power to ensure the internet is safer for children and families.