JOHOR BARU: Segamat member of parliament has called for legal action against those responsible for the cyberbullying that allegedly led to the suicide of 30-year-old activist and social media influencer.

R. Yuneswaran who is outraged by influencer A. Rajeswary's death, said cyberbullying or online harassment has severe consequences on its victims.

He urged the Communications and Digital Ministries to take action against the cyberbullies.

Rajeswary, also known as Esha on TikTok, who regularly shared inspiring quotes and beauty content, allegedly took her own life on Friday.

Reports suggest she was allegedly tormented by a group of TikTok users leading up to her death.

Yuneswaran today said cyberbullying must be addressed immediately to prevent a recurrence.

"The Communications and Digital Ministries, as well as relevant authorities should set a firm precedent by punishing those responsible for bullying Esha.

"The perpetrators of this heinous act must be held accountable. By doing so, we send a clear message to all bullies on social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, that their actions will not be tolerated and will be met with severe consequences."

He also called for the ministries to establish a special panel to review and create guidelines for online content.

He said this is to curb hate speech and cyberbullying.

"The government must implement stricter account sign-up policies and actively monitor fake accounts by flagging fake accounts holder who are potential cyberbullies," he said.

Esha lodged a police report at the Dang Wangi police station in Kuala Lumpur against the perpetrators.

In her report, she claimed that the perpetrators used fake profiles and harassed her and her family.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said a proposal on solutions to cyberbullying and online harassment will be presented to the cabinet on Friday.

Fahmy, who attended Esha's funeral at her family's home in Gombak yesterday, said police investigation into her death was ongoing.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1073685/outrage-over-influencers-alleged-suicide-segamat-mp-calls-harsh