KUALA LUMPUR: Social media, which has evolved into a popular communication channel for the people to obtain information, should be used prudently, including to share differences in opinion without stirring hatred, Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak said.

Salleh, who celebrates his first anniversary in helming the Communications and Multimedia Ministry, said the people should know how to manage differences in opinion or dissent as it is important in sustaining national stability and prosperity.

“Knowledge, mature thinking, constructive criticism and an informed society can help drive the national agenda to promote patriotism, unity, harmony, tolerance and respect for one another.

“I personally believe that differences of opinion are acceptable and should be welcomed. Differences of opinion need not lead to disunity and feelings of hatred,” he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama in conjunction with his one year of helming the ministry.

Salleh, 59, who holds a PhD in Politics and Government from Universiti Putra Malaysia, has vast experience in the country’s politics.

He was the Chief Minister of Sabah from Dec 28, 1994, to May 27, 1996, and has also held various portfolios in the Sabah Cabinet.

On complaints from the people regarding the speed and coverage of the Internet, Salleh said the government is continuously expanding and improving digital infrastructure on the realisation that communications are vital for developing knowledge-intensive industries and accelerating economic development. – Bernama