KUALA LUMPUR: The Communications and Digital Ministry refuted allegations made by Perikatan Nasional lawmaker Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim who claimed that his live stream on TikTok was blocked.

Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching said it was irresponsible for the Arau member of parliament (MP) to claim that his TikTok live stream during his debate session in Dewan Rakyat yesterday was banned and demanded the latter to repeat his statement outside of the August House.

"The claims that his TikTok live was banned due to the ministry having a collaboration with the social media platform is very irresponsible.

"Do not abuse the Dewan Rakyat platform. Cyber security is not about TikTok or other social media platforms alone and I believe you know that as a veteran MP.

"If you are bold enough, (you) can come out of the House and repeat your statement so that legal action can be taken against you," she said during her ministry winding-up speech.

She reiterated that the ministry did not interfere and has no involvement in the accusations levelled by the Arau MP.

"If we (the ministry) is involved, we would have requested TikTok to delete the live stream. (And) you need to understand that TikTok is not a local company nor does it operate under the ministry.

"Hence, pose your question to TikTok, I can also give you their number if you want."

Previously, Shahidan alleged that his TikTok live stream during one of his debate sessions in Dewan Rakyat yesterday was blocked for 10 minutes, following an engagement session between the ministry and TikTok.

He also sneered at Pakatan Harapan (PH) for its action which used to defend the right to freedom of speech but had met with the social media platform to block certain content.

"My rights should not be denied as I am saying this in Parliament, not outside. Not only TikTok, but the government has also engaged with several other (social media platforms).

"Why would you want to make it difficult for MPs to talk on the people's issues, Employees Provident Fund or the rising cost of living," he said.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/03/892148/teo-refutes-shahidans-allegations-ministry-blocked-tiktok-live-stream