Legislation needs to go hand in hand with education

Malaysia has just passed laws outlawing fake news and spelt out tough sentences for those who cross the line. Singapore is just one of several countries around the region trying to address the phenomenon via legislation. Indonesia is doing the same. The Philippines is also on the same page. While legislation against fake news may be necessary, it may not be entirely effective in controlling the generation of falsehoods or their circulation.

Who is to be the final arbiter of the truth? When is an opinion considered fake news? What about news that comes in credible dribs and drabs, but the final whole is demonstrably false? What about honest mistakes? These were some of the issues which were discussed over 50 hours, via 170 written submissions and with some 65 speakers who appeared before the select committee on online falsehoods.

The entire process had as many supporters as detractors, with some critics likening it to more of an inquisition than a hearing. Whatever the case, the committee will reconvene next month to deliberate on a report of its findings.