MCMC, police investigating five individuals spread fake news
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), with the cooperation of the police, is investigating the cases of five individuals alleged to have spread fake news about COVID-19 in several locations, in Perak and Penang.
In a statement issued yesterday, the commission said the investigations are being conducted under section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1988 which carries a maximum fine of RM50,000 or one year of imprisonment or both, upon conviction.
“The MCMC and police are collaborating through a Cyber Crime Committee to address the spread of fake news, especially about COVID-19, which can mislead Malaysians and create panic,” the MCMC said.
The MCMC has received 43 reports from members of the public, with 18 suspects identified.
Six of them, including a celebrity, have been charged in court under Section 505 (b) of the Penal Code which carries a maximum jail term of two years or a fine or both, if found guilty.
In instances of uncertainty about the veracity of a piece of news, members of the public are urged to visit the portal: Sebenarnya.my or the telegram link at https://t.me/sebenarnyamy.
To report fake news about COVID-19, contact the ‘Salur kepada Kami’ link at https://sebenarnya.my/salur/ and Sebenarnya.my.
Bernama
