Jeff Paine, Managing Director, Asia Internet Coalition
The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) wishes to address and rebut specific assertions made by the Minister of Public Security in Parliament regarding the Online Safety Bill. The Minister’s statement fails to accurately represent the significant contributions made by the AIC throughout the legislative process, which include comprehensive submissions and engagements such as hosting representatives from the Ministry of Public Security at the annual Online Safety Forum organized by the AIC in Singapore.
These engagements and representations culminated in our most recent submission to the Ministry on January 8, 2024.
Despite our commitment to constructive collaboration, the AIC has not been privy to proposed amendments to the bill. We firmly maintain our position that the current form of the Online Safety Bill is unworkable and would undermine potential growth and foreign direct investment into Sri Lanka’s digital economy. We unequivocally stand by our belief that extensive revisions are imperative for the Bill to align with global best practices.
About the Asia Internet Coalition
The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) is an industry association comprising leading Internet and technology companies. The AIC aims to promote the understanding and resolution of Internet policy issues in the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit www.aicasia.org.
End of Statement
