TIKTOK Malaysia is stepping up its efforts to protect users from cyberbullying by enhancing its moderation technology and strengthening community guidelines.

Despite having already met all regulatory and legal requirements, the social media platform is expediting its detection and prevention measures, according to TikTok’s head of public policy Anuar Fariz Fadzil.

In a recent interview with FMT after a panel discussion titled “Surf’s Up: Deputies of Digital Literacy” at the University of Nottingham Malaysia, Anuar noted the platform’s zero tolerance for bullying.

If the content, be it video or comments, violates community guidelines - and this includes foul language, swear words or threats - we will remove it.

He stated that any content, including videos or comments, that violates community guidelines-such as containing foul language, threats, or swear words-will be promptly removed.

This initiative comes in response to criticism from Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who described TikTok’s handling of cyberbullying complaints as “very disappointing” and suggested the platform was not taking the issue seriously.

Anuar refuted this claim, stressing TikTok’s commitment to creating a safe online environment.

“We are ramping up our resources domestically to spot (cases of cyberbullying), especially with regard to the local context.

We want to (detect it) early so no one else falls victim on any platform.

The urgency of these measures is underscored by the recent tragic death of 29-year-old TikTok influencer Rajeswary Appahu, known as Esha, who reportedly took her own life after being bullied online.

Activist David Marshel has called for government action, alleging that Esha had been harassed by several individuals using pseudonyms or fake accounts. Two people have since been charged in connection with her harassment.

Lorry driver B Sathiskumar, 44, pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for posting lewd comments on TikTok intended to annoy others.

He faces additional charges under Section 509 of the Penal Code for posting lewd comments aimed at Esha’s mother, PR Puspa, 56. If convicted, Sathiskumar could face up to five years in jail, fines, or both.

In another case, P Shalini, 35, was fined RM100 by the magistrates’ court for engaging in insulting behaviour with the intention of inciting anger and disrupting peace, an offense under the Minor Offences Act 1955. - July 17, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/tiktok-enhances-moderation-community-guidelines-to-combat-cyberbullying/