Why is the Anti-Fake News Act considered draconian?

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The Anti-Fake News Act 2018 is considered draconian and should be repealed.

PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar has stated that the Anti-Fake News Act 2018 is "draconian in nature" and called for its repeal, aligning with Pakatan Harapan's pre-election pledges to the Malaysian public. This stance comes in response to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's announcement of plans to define the Act to clarify what constitutes factual news. Nurul Izzah emphasised commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people regarding the abolition of such legislation.
Calls for Repeal Based on Election Pledges

Nurul Izzah Anwar explicitly stated that the Anti-Fake News Act 2018 should be repealed because it was among the promises made by Pakatan Harapan to Malaysians prior to their electoral victory. She expressed her commitment to the actual repeal of the Act, underscoring the obligation to honour these commitments to the electorate.
Act's Enactment and Parliamentary Vote

The Anti-Fake News Act 2018 came into effect on April 11, 2018. It was initially tabled in the Dewan Rakyat in March of the same year, a process that reportedly involved significant debate. Following this, the Act was put to a vote and passed with 123 members of Parliament voting in favour and 64 voting against.
Government's Stance on Defining Factual News

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad indicated that the government intends to properly define the Act. The aim of this initiative is to ensure clarity for everyone regarding what constitutes factual news and what does not. This announcement has drawn criticism from some members of the public, particularly those who advocate for free speech.

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Why is the Anti-Fake News Act considered draconian?

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