KUCHING: Sarawakians are raising concerns over the potential impact of the Online Safety Act 2024 on indigenous cultural expressions, urging the Federal government to ensure that enforcement is culturally sensitive and does not lead to unnecessary censorship.
During a recent session in the Parliament, Telford Engan Tan, an 18-year-old advocate for Sarawak’s cultural heritage, questioned the broad definitions within the Act, warning that its vague criteria for harmful content could pose risks to freedom of expressions.
He directed his concerns to the chairperson of Kumpulan Rentas Party Parliament Malaysia, Rodziah Ismail – Hak Kanak Kanak (KRPPM), highlighting the need for clearer guidelines.
“While the Online Safety Act 2024 aims to protect vulnerable groups from online harms, I am deeply concerned that its wide-ranging definitions could inadvertently suppress our Indigenous cultural expressions,” said Telford.
“As a Sarawakian, I must voice my concern. With our unique traditions and a diverse population of approximately 2.5 million, our cultural expressions — such as those proudly showcased by influencers like Baby Shima in traditional Iban attire—risk being unfairly targeted under a vague ‘duty of care’.”he said.
Telford has called on the Federal government to address two key issues. The first issue concerns collaboration with Sarawak and how the government will work with Sarawak to ensure that enforcement of the Act is culturally sensitive and respectful of indigenous heritage.
The second issue pertains to need for clearer definitions of “harmful” content and what are the measures that will be taken to establish a robust system that prevents overreach, especially in light of past incidents like Operasi Lalang in 1987.
As a member of UNICEF Malaysia’s Young Person’s Advisory Group (YPAG), Telford represents the commitment of Sarawak’s youth to civic participation.
His stand reflects a growing demand among Sarawakians for policies that safeguard both online safety and the state’s rich cultural heritage.
