Page 19 - JDPA Volume 02, Issue 02

Journal of Defence & Policy Analysis Volume 02, Issue 02, December 2023

Throughout the standoff, misinformation emerged as a formidable challenge,
spreading rapidly through social media and other communication channels, ex-
acerbating public fear and confusion. False narratives and exaggerated claims
proliferated, heightening tensions and complicating the response efforts of Ma-
laysian security forces. The dissemination of misinformation not only hindered
the authorities’ ability to manage the crisis effectively but also underscored the
need for robust mechanisms to counter false information in times of heightened
unrest.

5. Russian interference in the U.S. elections

Drawing parallels to global instances of disinformation, such as the Russian
interference in the U.S. elections, sheds light on the pervasive nature of misin-
formation campaigns in shaping political outcomes. In the Malaysian context,
disinformation has been strategically employed during general elections to in-
fluence public sentiment and sway voter perceptions. False narratives targeting
political candidates, parties, and policies are disseminated across various media
platforms, exploiting vulnerabilities in the information ecosystem to manipulate
public opinion. These orchestrated efforts highlight the evolving tactics used to
undermine democratic processes and sow discord within society.

6. 2018 anti-ICERD rally

The 2018 anti-ICERD rally serves as another illustrative example of the disrup-
tive impact of disinformation on Malaysian society. The rally, triggered by mis-
information surrounding the Malaysian government’s intention to ratify the In-
ternational Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination
(ICERD), drew widespread attention and participation. Opposition from political
parties such as UMNO and PAS, grounded in concerns over the perceived threat
to Malay and Bumiputra rights enshrined in the Constitution, fueled public dis-
content and mobilized support for the rally. Despite the government’s subsequent
decision not to ratify ICERD, the rally proceeded, underscoring the enduring in-
fluence of disinformation in shaping public discourse and political mobilization.

In response to the challenges posed by disinformation, governments worldwide
are increasingly adopting measures to address the proliferation of false informa-
tion and its deleterious effects on society. In Malaysia, efforts to combat disinfor-
mation have included the implementation of surveillance mechanisms, public
awareness campaigns, and legislative measures aimed at curbing the spread of
false information online. These initiatives seek to promote media literacy, em-
power citizens to critically evaluate information, and foster a more discerning
public discourse resilient to the influence of disinformation.

Addressing the root causes of societal divisions and grievances is essential in mit-
igating the susceptibility of populations to disinformation campaigns. Addresing

Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka
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