Kuala lumpur: A total of 1,493 pieces of content pertaining to religion, royalty, and race (3R) issues have been removed following rigorous monitoring by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in collaboration with global platform operators. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil revealed that this action was in response to 2,486 complaints filed from January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, urging the removal of sensitive content.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Fahmi emphasized that while the public has the right to freedom of expression, as affirmed by the Federal Court, this does not translate into an unrestricted right to defame or incite provocation, especially on sensitive 3R matters. He noted, "The Federal Court's decision shows that we have the right to freedom of expression, but not the right to defame or to issue statements of a 3R nature."

Fahmi also highlighted that amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, specifically Section 233(1), replaced the term "offensive" with "grossly offensive," yet 3R-related messages remain actionable offenses. He informed the media of these developments during the Chinese New Year Open House for the Lembah Pantai parliamentary constituency at the Taman Sri Sentosa Market.

Further, Fahmi asserted that the MCMC is equipped to track individuals making 3R-related comments, even if they are not on the original posts. He reiterated the right of Malaysians to assemble peacefully but clarified that assemblies intending to sow division or threaten national security are not allowed, particularly with the visit of foreign dignitaries like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Fahmi stressed that authorities, especially the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), are on standby to take decisive action against any attempts to disturb public order. He called on the public to use digital platforms responsibly and adhere to legal norms to maintain national harmony.