Tee Yong-Section 114A means well, but needs tweaking

MCA HQ, 15 Aug – Speaking to reporters at the press conference held here, MCA Young Professionals Bureau Chairman Datuk Chua Tee Yong had expressed his personal opinion that Section 114A of the Evidence Act needs to be reviewed.

Reiterating however that the amendments were well-intentioned to prevent slander, Tee Yong stressed that the whole Act should not be scrapped as the law was meant to stop negative comments which might touch on sensitive issues or on one’s sensitivity which might lead to unrest, saying “not drop the whole thing, just tweak Section 114A. This (section) is creating huge discontentment among the people.”

“The regulation itself might be too overzealous. The intention was good to prevent slander and inciting community unrest, but there is the perception that once something is posted, then that person is at fault, but that person may not be at the computer at that time,” said Tee Yong.

“My understanding is that it (the charges) will be based on your IP address,” said Tee Yong, adding that owners of establishments which offer wireless internet services are at risk, explaining that there are certain quarters who hide behind anonymous postings. “This is not easy to trace,” he added.

“It must be more balanced and clear so that no one will fear that it encompasses everything. If I am a wifi operator, he or she may be excluded. I understand that the basic thing is to give a check and balance for anonymous people who create unrest,” he said.

The Labis Member of Parliament also said that when the Evidence Act is implemented, it might not be clear or maybe ambiguous and that the part in Section 114A which implies that one is guilty till proven innocent should be reviewed to deal with anonymous hatred-filled postings.

Pengerang residents’ unhappiness being looked into
On the issue of the Petronas Refinery and Petrochemical Integrated Development (Rapid) in Pengerang, Johor the MCA Young Professionals Bureau Chairman had explained that in his capacity as the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industries, he has directed the Fisheries Department to visit the affected area and to have discussions with the fishermen there.

He added that leases have been given, but the lease is not complete. The MP for Pengerang, Dato’ Azalina has given the Agriculture Ministry the complete list.

Tee Yong also explained that they have started a registration to get data on the fishermen affected. Repeating MCA’s stand that the party supports development but not at the expense of the environment and eco-system, Tee Yong also revealed that the party has directed YB Hoo Seong Chang, MCA’s state exco in the state to look into the matter as well.

Other MCA leaders present at the media conference were office bearers from the MCA Selangor state liaison committee and the state assemblymen for Kuala Kubur Baru Wong Koon Mun and Sg Pelek, YB Yap Ee Wah.