The accounts, linked to disinformation campaigns, accused Singapore of being influenced by foreign actors in its leadership transition, says the Ministry of Home Affairs.
SINGAPORE: Singapore is set to block nearly 100 social media accounts associated with exiled Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui, citing concerns that the accounts could be used to launch hostile information campaigns.
This marks the first application of account restriction directions under the Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act (FICA), passed in October 2021.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced on Friday (July 19) that five social media platforms—X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok—have been instructed to block 95 accounts from being accessed by Singapore users. The MHA emphasized that there is no evidence indicating any of these accounts are operated by Singaporeans.
Allegations and Findings
The identified accounts are linked to Guo and his affiliated entities, including the New Federal State of China and the Himalaya Supervisory Organisation. These entities are known for disseminating disinformation across platforms, MHA stated.
Between April 17 and May 10, 2024, these accounts reportedly published over 120 posts and videos targeting Singapore’s leadership transition. The posts alleged undue foreign influence in the selection of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who succeeded Lee Hsien Loong on May 15, 2024.
MHA noted that the timing and content of these posts indicated deliberate coordination.
Platforms Respond
Social media platforms have complied with the directive. TikTok restricted the account in Singapore, Meta took action against Facebook and Instagram accounts for violating its inauthentic behavior policies, and YouTube either blocked or terminated identified accounts. A check on X revealed that the flagged accounts have been suspended.
Broader Implications
Guo Wengui, a controversial billionaire in exile, is associated with a vast disinformation network, according to a 2021 report by social media analytics firm Graphika. The MHA expressed concerns that these accounts could launch campaigns undermining Singapore’s sovereignty and social cohesion.
“Such campaigns can erode trust in democratic processes, sow discord in communities, and undermine confidence in public institutions,” the MHA warned.
To combat such risks, Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam authorized action under FICA, requiring platforms to disable interactions between the targeted accounts and Singapore-based users.
Public Advisory
The MHA urged Singaporeans to critically evaluate online information and rely on credible sources to verify facts. “We should always fact-check to ensure accuracy and authenticity,” it said.
The ministry highlighted that FICA assessments are conducted case by case, considering factors such as the content’s relevance, reach, and potential threat to Singapore’s interests.
This decisive move signals Singapore’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its digital landscape against disinformation and foreign interference.
