SINGAPORE — Singapore proposed legislation Wednesday to set up a powerful new body that can compel social media firms to take down harmful posts, block access or remove apps to shield users from cyberbullying and other online abuse.

With more Singaporeans falling victim to harmful online content, the government said the Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Bill will help them seek relief and legal redress.

The bill provides for the formation of an Online Safety Commission (OSC) with powers to address complaints against harmful content.

Its powers “include directions to take down the harmful content, restrict the perpetrator’s online account or allow the victim to post a reply”, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) and the Ministry of Law said in a joint statement.

Takedown orders may be issued to those who post harmful content, online administrators, or social media platforms, the statement said.

“Non-compliance with directions is a criminal offence,” it warned.

In such cases, the commission can issue an order to block access or remove an app “to put a stop to the online harm.”