KUCHING: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) stressed that the 16-year-old teenager’s suicide case after holding a poll on Instagram was still under investigation by the police.
According to a statement yesterday, investigations are still being conducted by police to find out whether there are abetments in the case.
“Abetment of suicide of child or insane person is a bigger crime as the accused could be charged under Section 305 of the Penal Code that carries a maximum jail of 20 years and also liable to a fine, upon conviction,” the statement added.
In this case, the MCMC is willing to provide any technical assistance if required by the police.
MCMC also advises social media users to report to them if they find online partners who are likely to commit suicide, and to inform the immediate family members or friends of the person to avoid any unexpected event.
Any complaint can be reported directly to MCMC via e-mail aduanskmm@mcmc.gov.my or WhatsApp 016-2206 262. MCMC will take appropriate action against those involved in accordance with the existing law.
The commission also advised those facing depression problems to seek counselling and emotional support from support groups such as The Befrienders via email sam@befrienders.org.my or live meet-ups or call their 24-hour hotline at 03-79568145.
“To the media practitioners, they are advised to be more sensitive to any image or visualisation of the victims in their reports – to keep the privacy and feelings of the families involved,” the statement said.
