Interference in Politics through Social Media

Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked the Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts what are the measures that IDA has put in place to prevent foreigners from interfering in our local politics and affecting our domestic stability through the social media.

Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: We are all aware that the Internet can be used constructively or it can be used for subversive purposes, as is the concern of Mr Gan Thiam Poh.

There is legislation in place to deal with anyone, be it locals or foreigners, who conducts subversive activities, either through the Internet or other means.

First, groups involved in the discussion of political issues can be gazetted under the Political Donations Act as political associations. This prohibits them from receiving funds from and falling under the influence of foreigners seeking to use them as platforms to subvert our political processes.

Second, if a foreigner uses social media to stir up ill will and hostility amongst different racial and religious groups in Singapore, or to spread seditious materials, this could constitute a prosecutable offence under the Sedition Act and/or Penal Code.

Third, the Broadcasting Act and its Regulations also give MDA the power to order websites to take down specific pieces of content that are in breach of the Broadcasting Act Class Licence, for example, if they are against the public interest, public order or national harmony. Defiance of MDA's orders may result in a cancellation or suspension of the Class License and prosecution.

We however recognise that Internet use and behaviour are evolving. We would need to constantly review if the regulations we have in place are adequate.

Apart from legislation, there can be safeguards like filtering to restrict access to undesirable or harmful content. However, we recognise that filtering is not entirely full-proof. The best safeguard is to enhance information literacy among the people so that Internet users can better discern what they come across online. Much has been done in the area of cyber-wellness and media literacy, but we can do more. MICA is working with various stakeholders to review how we can further strength information literacy. We welcome ideas from the public and MPs on how we can enhance information literacy among our people.

Page: 699