Malaysia wants to outlaw 'fake news' — but human rights groups are wary

Malaysian man.
(Image credit: MANAN VATSYAYANA/AFP/Getty Images)

The Malaysian government proposed a bill Monday to outlaw "fake news," suggesting major fines and jail time for those who publish "wholly or partly false" information.

If the bill is passed, anyone who publishes fake news, either in print, online, or on social media, could face up to 10 years in jail, be fined up to $128,140, or both. The government has proposed the bill in the hopes that the public will be more responsible and cautious in sharing information, reports Reuters.

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Summer Meza, The Week US

Summer Meza has worked at The Week since 2018, serving as a staff writer, a news writer and currently the deputy editor. As a proud news generalist, she edits everything from political punditry and science news to personal finance advice and film reviews. Summer has previously written for Newsweek and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, covering national politics, transportation and the cannabis industry.