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The government has no intention to censor and regulate Internet content, Minister of Energy, Water and Communications Dr Lim Keng Yaik said today.

Via theSun, August 1, 17:12hr:

"It's difficult (to control the content) especially when you had given a promise when promoting the MSC (Multimedia Super Corridor). You have to go back on our word. Part of the article of guarantees of MSC was no censorship," he said after launching "EZ 2 Own Broadband PC' programme.

One of the bill of guarantees under the MSC conceptualised in 1996 was that the government will not institute Internet censorship.

Asked if the ministry planned to regulate it in future, he reiterated: "Not that I am aware of. Not at the present moment because we've given a bill of guarantees to the MSC."

Lim said there is much to be learned from the Internet provided one is selective in choosing content.

"In the Internet, you choose to enter. It's not like free-to-air television that if you are on it, whether you like it or not you have to see it (the programme). If you choose to enter the Internet, there must be certain discipline," he added.

Confusion among ministries

Last week, there was a series of confusion between two ministries of the present administration over laws and jurisdiction under their respective custody.

On Monday, July 31, Information Minister Zainuddin Maidin (ZAM) said the government must control the Internet and websites to curb the spread of rumours and news that can harm unity in the country.

Last week, Zainuddin had issued a stern warning to newspapers that actions will be taken should they stir up religious and racial issues.

Deputy Internal Security Minister Fu Ah Kiow later clarified that the responsibility of monitoring and regulating newspaper lies with his ministry and not other government agencies.

It should be pointed out that, the Information Ministry is only tasked to overlook Radio and Television Malaysia (RTM) and national news agency Bernama, while the monopolistic direct-to-home Astro services come under no-man's land.

On the other hand, monitoring Internet and private broadcasting media comes under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Energy, Water and Communication.