45 Fake News Investigations Ongoing as Authorities Step Up Crackdown
Kuala Nerus — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently handling 45 investigation papers linked to the spread of false information online, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
He explained that each case will be reviewed by the Attorney General’s Chambers, which will decide whether to impose compounds or proceed with prosecution.
Fahmi warned that those involved in spreading fake news face heavy penalties. Offenders may be issued compounds of up to RM250,000, while convictions in court could result in fines reaching RM500,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
He urged Malaysians to be more responsible in their online behaviour, reminding them to verify information before sharing it with others.
The minister also advised the public to rely on credible news providers such as Radio Televisyen Malaysia and Bernama, and to seek clarification from official sources whenever uncertainty arises.
Fahmi noted that MCMC has been actively taking enforcement measures to curb misinformation, including instructing the removal of misleading posts and working with the police to identify individuals behind suspicious accounts for further investigation.
He revealed that authorities have so far identified 386 pieces of false content tied to various current issues.
Among them, 118 posts were related to fuel-related claims, 45 involved electricity tariff issues concerning Tenaga Nasional Berhad, while 147 centred on inaccurate allegations regarding toll payments to Iran.
Additionally, 15 defamatory posts claiming Malaysia sells oil to the Philippines were detected and subsequently ordered to be taken down.
Fahmi reiterated the need for vigilance, stressing that sharing unverified information can lead to serious legal repercussions.
-wilayah.com.myhttp://wilayah.com.my
