KUCHING: In an era defined by digital connectivity, the Internet has become a powerful tool for communication, education and work – but it also harbours a growing threat in the form of cyberbullying.
This form of digital abuse, where individuals are harassed, humiliated or threatened online, follows victims beyond school gates or office walls, right into their homes.
According to a jointly written article, ‘Confronting Cyberbullying with Law’, by Cai Yanling, Li Bingling and Dr Mohd Istajib Mokhtar from the Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia now ranks fifth globally in terms of cyberbullying incidents, according to a 2024 IPSOS report.
“Alarmingly, many cases remain unreported, especially among women and young people, due to fear, stigma, or lack of legal clarity,” they said.
Referring to one tragic case that shook the nation in July 2024, where Rajeswary, a 29-year-old influencer known as ‘Eesha’, died by suicide following weeks of coordinated online harassment on TikTok with doctored images, public shaming, and cruel live broadcasts that drove her to despair.
“While two individuals were arrested, the light punishments, one fined RM100, the other released on bail, triggered public outrage.
“Many questioned: is that all a life is worth? In response, the government introduced a major legal reform in December 2024,” they said.
For the first time, doxing, that is maliciously publishing someone’s personal information online, was criminalised.
“Under amended laws, those who defame, threaten or insult others via digital communication can now face up to 10 years in prison,” they said.
The authors cited the Communications Minister, Datuk Fahmi Fadzi, who said the move reflects a growing recognition that “online abuse must be treated as seriously as real-world threats”.
“Still, experts warn that cyberbullying is more than a legal issue; it reflects a deeper cultural and moral crisis.
“Unfortunately, anonymity, inauthenticity and algorithm-driven outrage make cruelty easy and accountability rare because offenders can still hide behind fake profiles while platforms reward engagement over ethics,” they said.
The authors also cited digital sociologist, Daniel Trottier, who notes that the Internet often acts as a “magnifier for moral panic”, turning individuals into public targets.
“Meanwhile, victims bear the emotional and financial burden of defending themselves, often with little institutional support.
“To tackle this crisis, it requires more than punishment; media outlets must report responsibly, avoiding sensationalism that retraumatises victims.
“Social media companies must go beyond symbolic gestures by creating ethical algorithms, investing in real-time moderation, and making mental health support accessible.
“Education also plays a crucial role. Embedding digital ethics and empathy in school curricula and community programmes can empower young users to act responsibly online.
“Support systems must be strengthened, from confidential reporting channels to expanded mental health services,” the authors added.
The article also quoted digital media scholar, Elizabeth Whittaker, who said, “Behind every screen is a person. Empathy must be part of our digital DNA.”
Malaysia’s new anti-doxing law is a step forward, but the fight against cyberbullying requires a broader, multi-layered approach that combines legal reform, platform accountability, and a cultural shift toward empathy and digital responsibility.
