The Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025 has been gazetted and entered into force, among the highlights are:
1. Harassment and distress – Using threatening, abusive, or insulting words, communication, or acts with intent (or likelihood) to cause harassment, distress, fear, or alarm is an offence punishable by fines or imprisonment of up to three years.
2. Causing fear of harm – Acts or communications causing harm to a person or provoking self-harm, are criminal offences with penalties of up to ten years’ imprisonment in severe cases.
3. Misuse of Identity Information – Publishing or circulating personal identity information with intent (or likelihood) to cause harassment, fear, or harm is prohibited, with penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment.
Members are advised to take note of these amendments, especially in relation to business communication, customer data management, and workplace interaction. Please ensure that all company practices comply with the new legal requirement to avoid legal exposure.
