The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) said it shares Putrajaya's goal in addressing misinformation on the internet but believes this is best addressed through collaboration, rather than legislation that attempts to control information.

"We believe that prescriptive legislation designed to control the exchange of information will not adequately address the issue of false news effectively.

Discerning whether the information is 'true' or 'false' can be highly subjective and risk compromising access to information and legitimate exchange of ideas.

"False information is a highly complex issue, and is best addressed through solutions developed collaboratively with the news industry and government," it said in a statement to Malaysiakini.

AIC yesterday briefed Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Azalina Othman Said on efforts undertaken by internet companies to prevent the spread of misinformation.

This was amid plans by Putrajaya to introduce new legislation to address the issue of fake news.

The AIC said it is prepared to work together with the government to provide its feedback on Putrajaya's proposed legislation.

"We look forward to further dialogue to ensure a fair and balanced outcome of any legislative efforts in this area," it said.

AIC is an industry association comprising leading internet technology companies, including Google and Facebook.

It seeks to promote the understanding and resolution of internet policy issues in the Asia Pacific region.