THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has escalated its crackdown on online misinformation, revealing that 17 individuals are under investigation for allegedly spreading false claims about fuel price increases and new electricity tariffs.
The communications regulator said statements have so far been recorded from eight individuals, covering multiple cases linked to viral social media posts that have circulated widely and triggered public concern.
"Of the five cases, statements from three suspects were recorded earlier, while the remaining two were recorded yesterday.
"There are also three cases involving the new electricity tariffs. The remaining nine suspects are still under further monitoring and will be called in to have their statements recorded soon," MCMC said in a statement today.
Authorities are pursuing the cases under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 which provides for a maximum fine of RM500,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both, upon conviction.
The commission underscored that it takes a serious view of any misuse of digital platforms to mislead the public, particularly when false narratives relate to essential cost-of-living issues.
"The spread of such false information can create panic and anxiety among the public," it said.
It added that firm enforcement action would be taken against any individual found to have breached existing laws, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to the dissemination of misleading content online. - April 3, 2026
