In this era of globalisation, nationalism, extremism and technological advancement, upholding and promoting legitimate rights of all types is more important than ever.
The erosion and abuse of rights are a growing threat to democracy and human dignity.
The following are just a few of the rights generally regarded as our traditional human rights.
The right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, freedom of religion, due process of law, equal protection under the law, privacy, property, education and work.
An additional right, digital rights, are fast emerging as a critical human right that deserves our urgent attention.
Digital rights are those human rights and legal rights that allow individuals to access, use, create, and publish digital media or to access and use computers, other electronic devices, and telecommunications networks.
The issues related to digital rights are extensive. However, let us briefly look at some instances of digital rights.
The right to internet access is essential for participation in the digital age. This means everyone should be able to connect to the internet and use it to access information, communicate with others, and participate in the digital economy.
Our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has made significant efforts to expand internet access in Sarawak, particularly in rural areas.
He has introduced various visionary policies and initiatives focused on digitisation in all aspects of Sarawak’s economy and sectors to enable Sarawak to leap forward.
The initiatives also include affordable internet access across Sarawak, including rural communities. This ongoing effort will help bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Sarawakians will eventually have access to the internet that is uninterrupted and fast.
Another right is the right to freedom of expression online. This is essential for democracy and human rights. It allows people to share their ideas and opinions, to connect with others, and to participate in public discourse.
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have been used to rally civil movements worldwide, demonstrating the internet’s power to facilitate political change.
Governments must respect the right to freedom of expression online and refrain from unduly and arbitrarily censoring or restricting it.
The right to privacy online is another crucial element for human dignity and freedom. It allows us to control our personal information and to be free from unrestricted government and corporate surveillance.
Additionally, the right to security and safety online is essential for our well-being. It allows people to use the internet without fear of being attacked, harassed, or discriminated against.
Cyber-attacks, hacking, and cyberbullying are all serious threats to online security and safety. Governments and organisations need to increase their efforts and take better measures to protect people from these harms.
The right to education online is also essential for human development and progress. It allows people to learn and grow, regardless of location or circumstances. By providing educational opportunities online, we can help to create a more just and equitable world.
We also have the right to be protected from unfair or deceptive practices when buying or selling goods or services online.
However, many Malaysians still need to be made aware of their consumer protection rights. This can leave them vulnerable to exploitation via unscrupulous practices, as evidenced by the almost daily news of people getting scammed.
The right to development online is essential for human progress and prosperity. Some Sarawakians now have the opportunity to benefit from the digital economy and to use technology to improve their lives. For example, the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) is working to promote the use of technology in agriculture, tourism, and education.
We should also have the right to access information held about us by governments and their agencies. This is known as the right to information or the right to know.
It is an important right that allows us to hold governments accountable and ensure that our personal information is accurate and used correctly.
These are just a few examples of how digital rights can be used to protect and promote human rights in the digital age.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is more important than ever to protect these rights and ensure everyone can benefit from the digital revolution.
There are obviously many challenges to digital rights, and I will discuss them in another column.
Ultimately all stakeholders need to be facilitators of Digital rights because these rights enable people to participate fully in the digital age. They also help to protect people from harm and discrimination online.
It is reassuring that our Premier Abang Johari has said that regulations will be in place to ensure Sarawak has a safe, cyber-secure and vibrant environment to maximise digital value.
In the meantime, encourage all and yourselves to fully use digital technologies.
There is no turning the clock back on the advance of digitalisation in all aspects of our lives.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
