Malaysia announced on Tuesday that authorities are drafting amendments to the penal code to criminalize cyberbullying as well as a new law to hold internet providers liable.

South China Morning Post

This comes as TikTok user Rajeswary Appahu was found dead from an apparent suicide on July 5, reportedly just a day after filing a police report over online threats.

Time

Also on Tuesday, two people pledged guilty to charges under the Communications and Multimedia Act and Minor Offenses Act in connection with the harassment of the influencer who was known as Esha.

Free Malaysia Today

A 44-year-old man identified as B. Sathiskumar faces a potential one-year jail sentence and a fine of up to 50K Malaysian ringgit ($10.7K), while a 34-year-old woman named P. Shalini was fined 100 Malaysian ringgit ($21).

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil expressed disappointment with the relatively low fine imposed on Shalini, stressing the importance of setting appropriate penalties for cyberbullying.

The Star

Meanwhile, TikTok Malaysia claimed to be improving its moderation technology and community guidelines to better protect users against cyberbullying — including accelerating detection and taking preventive actions.

Daily Express

Malaysia Addressing Cyberbullying After Death of TikToker

Malaysia Addressing Cyberbullying After Death of TikToker

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Malaysia Addressing Cyberbullying After Death of TikToker

Malaysia Addressing Cyberbullying After Death of TikToker

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