Government Orders Twitter User To Tweet 100 Apologies For Defamation

What is the appropriate punishment for someone who is found guilty of slandering on social media? The Malaysian court decided to sentence one defendant to apologizing on social media.

Fahmi Fadzil (@fahmi_fadzil), described as a respected commentator on social issues, got exactly that penalty after he wrote on Twitter about his pregnant friend who was allegedly ill-treated by her company, BluInc Media. Although Fadzil subsequently tweeted his apology a few hours later, BluInc still went on to press charges against Fadzil. After three months, the court decided to punish Fadzil as he was ordered to send 100 apology tweets to BluInc through Twitter over the next three days. Here’s number 26 from today:

Many of Fadzil’s 4,500 Twitter followers expressed support for him. This punishment may sound somewhat ridiculous to some, but others think it’s reasonable since the charges originate from a statement on Twitter.

Fadzil’s defamation case is believed to be the first of its kind that involves the use of Twitter. “We’re in uncharted waters,” lawyer Syahredzan said, adding that the case could cause Malaysians to become more aware of the repercussions of their comments on social media.

We have reached out to Fadzil for comment but have yet to receive a reply from him.

Update: Fadzil’s lawyer pointed out that that is a settlement reached by both parties and it is not considered a ‘punishment.’ She has declined to give any further comments.

Source: AP