KUALA LUMPUR, April 4 -- The Cyber Security Bill 2024 could grant the government excessive powers that could be abused to curtail freedom of expression and media online, said rights group Article 19.

In a statement, Article 19 said that any legislation on 'cybercrime' must fully comply with international human rights standards, in particular, those on the right to freedom of expression and privacy.

"Article 19 is gravely concerned about the speedy passing of the Bill, as it will be a mechanism for government censorship of online expression.

"It will give the government unaccountable control of computer-related activities, as well as nearly unlimited search and seizure powers.

"Its criminal provisions do not require any actual intent t...