Coronavirus: MCMC probing fake news by Ibu Yati

by Theleaders-Online | January 29, 2020 6:16 am

PUCHONG: A social media user, known as Ibu Yati, is now being investigated for spreading fake news on the novel coronavirus using the social media platform.

Malaysia Communication and Multimedia Commission Corporate (MCMC) communications director R Kamalavacini said the agency and the police have detained Ibu Yati, aged 34, at the suspect’s home in Bangi at 4pm yesterday to help with the investigation.

“Ibu Yati was detained after the content uploaded on the suspect’s Facebook page on Jan 26 was proven to be false.

“We also seized the suspect’s phone and sim card which is believed to have been used to upload the content,” she said, in a statement today.

Kamalavacini said the suspect will be investigated under Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a fine up to RM50,000 or imprisonment of not more than a year, or both.

She advised the public not to spread fake news about the disease as it will create panic in the country.

“MCMC and the police will take stern action against individuals who try to spread fake news about the disease,” she added.

By Irman Hashim

Source URL: https://theleaders-online.com/coronavirus-mcmc-probing-fake-news-by-ibu-yati/