Mimos to police e-mails
14th September 2004 (New Straits Times)
By Kamarul Yunus E-mails that cast doubts on certain products will be investigated, as they can affect a company's business and the economy, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Jamaludin Jarjis said today. He said the ministry had directed government-owned technology firm Mimos Bhd to investigate such e-mails. "Previously, we had to contend with the issue of security on the Internet. Now the threat is to consumers and industries. "If consumers are misled by wrong information, this would pose a threat to the country's economy," Jama- ludin said after launching the four- day Microsoft Tech.Ed 2004 conference and exhibition. Gardenia Bakeries (M) Sdn Bhd, for example, had to call a Press conference to refute e-mail allegations that its products were not halal. The most recent case involved e-mail targeting "Coffee Bean" outlets, alleging that non-halal products were being used to make its specialty coffees. "I have heard of the issue," Jamalu- din said. We are investigating it. If need be, I will present a Cabinet paper or take the matter to the National Information Technology Council." Jamaludin said he would also meet with related government agencies and IT developers next month to get feedback on how to improve the infrastructure in Cyberjaya. He acknowledged grouses that Cyberjaya lacked recreational facilities, entertainment outlets, security and restaurants, and said the developers and relevant authorities would address these shortcomings. "Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) wants Cyberjaya to become a vibrant town, equipped with the necessary software infrastructure," he said. On the national roll-out of the second phase of the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), Jamaludin said the Government would consider applications from other States to be part of the MSC project if they met MSC infrastructure standards. He said States must have the infrastructure for broadband access as well as adequate human resources and capital. |
