THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is investigating AI-manipulated footage of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad following the death of his wife, warning that legal action could be taken if the content is found to breach the law.
MCMC said it had contacted the relevant social media platforms and was scrutinising the content, which allegedly manipulated genuine footage of Mahathir while he was mourning the loss of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.
“If the review finds that there has been a breach of the law, appropriate action may be taken under the applicable legal provisions, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588),” it said in a statement on Friday.
The commission said it took seriously the manipulation of authentic recordings in ways that could mislead the public, distort the context of an event or affect the dignity of individuals and their families.
It said such conduct was particularly inappropriate when it involved moments of personal grief and bereavement.
MCMC also urged the public not to create, upload or circulate manipulated content that could mislead others or cause harm.
It advised users to verify the authenticity of content before sharing it and to report suspected manipulated material to the relevant social media platforms or authorities.
The commission said the growing use of AI offered significant benefits to society but must be accompanied by responsible use.
“Technology should not be used to distort the truth or exploit a person's grief at the expense of dignity and human values,” it said.
The investigation follows the circulation of social media content allegedly manipulating footage of Mahathir during the period of mourning after Hasmah's death.
Siti Hasmah died on Sept 28 at the age of 100. - October 2, 2026
