M’sia Makes Body-Shaming A Crime; Says This Has To End For Mental Health Awareness

By
Eryka Rojas
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Watch out keyboard warriors, the Malaysian authorities are now lawfully permitted to issue you a warrant for being a douchebag.

Malaysia’s Health Ministry has given us a glimmer of hope at a time of devastation – Body Shaming is now a criminal offence under the country’s law against cyberbullying.  It is certainly a piece of good news and a revolutionary step towards encouraging awareness and the betterment of mental health.

What a time to be alive!

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Image: Giphy

Offenders To Be Fined, Jailed, Or Both 

An infographic poster announcing the movement was released by Malaysia’s Health Ministry on Wednesday, 16 October.

Image: Facebook (Kementarian Kesihatan Malaysia)

It is stated on the poster that offenders found guilty of cyberbullying will be subjected to a fine of S$16,000, a jail-time of up to one year, or both. This was permissible under section 233(1)(b), of the Communication and Multimedia act that was established in 1998.

Giving a Voice to the Victims of Body Shaming

Victims can now lodge reports against their abusers through local authorities or the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM).

Malaysia’s Health Ministry also expressed the negative effects that cyberbullying poses to the victim. As listed on the poster, they are – emotional stress, loss of self-confidence, loss of appetite, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Image: Twitter (KKMPutrajaya)

Shedding Light on Mental Health Awareness

Following the series of events, like the infamous comment made by a Malaysian influencer, the movement by the Malaysian Health Ministry is indeed something that deserves a 5-star review.

In years to come or even just months, it would be nice if Singapore can adopt a similar approach as well. What do you think?

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Eryka Rojas
Email: [email protected]