KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians should be cautious when it comes to spreading or sharing inaccurate or unconfirmed news reports.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, in a blog post on his official website yesterday, reminded the people to be wary of news shared on social media platforms.
Citing the Taman Jaya vehicle blaze which took place on Dec 21 as an example, Najib said many people had spread the news saying it was a bomb blast.
He wrote: “Recently, I have seen a lot of people spreading news on the so-called bomb blast that took place in Petaling Jaya. We now know that it was not what had transpired.”
Najib said this was a lesson to Malaysians to be careful when sharing and spreading news, especially news received through social media and messaging applications.
Reiterating that it was important to verify news, the prime minister added: “It is also our responsibility to ensure any messages we receive are genuine and accurate.”
He said in Islam, followers were taught that if a messenger brought news, it was vital to determine its accuracy and truth before believing what has been said, as this could prevent unwanted incidents.
Najib said spreading unverified news would create a climate of fear and damage the nation’s reputation in the eyes of the world. It could also cause implications on the country’s economy.
“Today, with the technology at hand, it is very easy for anyone to share information, but unfortunately, many still do not place the importance of verifying the authenticity of the information or messages received before sharing it with others.”
Najib called on Malaysians to be more responsible with technology, as spreading unconfirmed news would lead to defamation and libel and could cause disunity and jeapordise the harmony Malaysia has built and enjoyed.
On Dec 21, a fire engulfed six vehicles at the Taman Jaya parking space, destroying two cars.
Rumours circulated on social media that a bomb caused the fire, with many sharing pictures of thick smoke billowing from the LRT station.
The police, however, denied the rumours that a bomb was the cause and are investigating the case as mischief by fire.
No comments:
Post a Comment