Why do Malaysians bypass due process in legal cases?

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Public Opinion Overrides Due Process Due to Misunderstanding and Online Amplification

Malaysians appear to be bypassing due process in legal cases due to a significant misunderstanding of the justice system's workings, coupled with the ease with which hatred and untruths can be manufactured and amplified on social media platforms. This phenomenon is evident in instances where the public attacks not only accused perpetrators but also their legal representatives, and where individuals pronounce guilt or innocence online while trials are still underway. The recent high-profile abuse case, which saw public outcry and even commentary from religious figures regarding legal representation, highlighted this disconnect between public sentiment and legal procedures.
Lack of Understanding of the Justice System

There is a discernible lack of comprehension regarding the fundamental principles of the justice system among the Malaysian public. This misunderstanding manifests in the belief that due process can be entirely circumvented. This is not a new issue, as questions about the judiciary have been raised over the years, but it does not justify the public's assumption that legal procedures can be disregarded.
Ease of Online Misinformation and Incitement

The digital landscape facilitates the rapid creation and dissemination of hateful content and falsehoods. Platforms like Facebook have been criticized for their role in spreading misinformation, as seen in past instances concerning US elections and the Rohingya crisis, and continue to be used for various forms of propaganda. Similarly, YouTube has become a venue for fabricated videos containing false narratives and invented quotes, as exemplified by the publicity surrounding the Johnny Depp libel suit.
Public Pronouncements on Ongoing Cases

The public's tendency to make definitive statements about how judges should rule, even when not directly involved in a case, is a cause for concern. This extends to online pronouncements of guilt or innocence while legal proceedings are still active. The use of hashtags to generate public anger in abuse cases further illustrates how social media is employed to influence perceptions before legal resolutions are reached.

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Why do Malaysians bypass due process in legal cases?

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