What legal powers were used to disable access to the Quran-stepping video in Singapore?

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Singapore Authorities Utilised the Online Criminal Harms Act to Block Access to a Quran-Stepping Video

In March, Singaporean authorities invoked the Online Criminal Harms Act to compel Meta to disable access within the country to a video depicting an individual stepping on the Quran. This action was taken in response to the significant public anger and concern generated by the circulation of the video online.
Legal Framework for Content Moderation

The Online Criminal Harms Act provides the legal framework through which Singaporean authorities can order internet intermediaries, such as Meta, to take down or disable access to online content deemed to be harmful or criminal. This legislation allows for swift action to be taken against content that could incite hatred or cause disharmony among different racial or religious groups within Singapore. The Act aims to address the challenges posed by the internet and its potential for misuse.
Specific Action Against the Quran-Stepping Video

Following the emergence and widespread sharing of the video, which showed a person stepping on the Quran on a public bus, the Singapore government identified it as content that could threaten racial and religious harmony. Consequently, a directive was issued to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, to restrict access to this specific video for users located in Singapore. This measure was implemented to prevent further dissemination and potential escalation of religious insensitivity within the nation.
Broader Context of Maintaining Religious Harmony

The incident and the subsequent legal action underscore Singapore's commitment to maintaining racial and religious harmony. Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam has previously stated that individuals who act in ways that could cause enmity or hostility between different groups will be dealt with firmly. The police have reiterated that they take a serious view of such acts and will enforce the law strictly to safeguard the nation's social fabric. The man linked to the Quran-stepping video is also under investigation for separate alleged anti-Muslim remarks online.

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What legal powers were used to disable access to the Quran-stepping video in Singapore?

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