AN individual has been charged at the Sessions Court in Sepang, Selangor, over the alleged dissemination of false content related to fuel price hikes, in a case highlighting growing concerns over misinformation during the global supply crisis.
The accused, Siti Nor Sayikilla Binti Mohd Azhar, 31, is alleged to have uploaded and shared fabricated content bearing the name and logo of Buletin TV3.
The content falsely claimed significant increases in petrol and diesel prices, inconsistent with official figures, purportedly taking effect on 1 April 2026. The material was circulated via the Threads platform on 31 March 2026.
She was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for knowingly using an application service to initiate and transmit false communications.
The accused pleaded not guilty and requested a trial. The court set bail at RM4,000 and fixed 4 May 2026 for case mention.
If convicted, she faces penalties under Section 233(2) of the same Act, which provides for a fine of up to RM500,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said, on Thursday, it views any misuse of social media and digital platforms to mislead the public through false information with utmost seriousness, warning that firm action will be taken against those who breach existing laws.
The commission also urged the public to exercise responsibility when using digital platforms and to refrain from uploading or sharing content that could undermine social harmony and public order. - April 30, 2026
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