KUALA LUMPUR – The police force and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have summoned TikTok’s management for questioning over provocative videos suggesting a repeat of the May 13, 1969 racial riots that have been uploaded on the short-form video-sharing app.
In a statement today, MCMC said it also took note of a media report claiming that several of the clips making the rounds are paid content.
“MCMC, together with the cooperation of the Royal Malaysian Police, have summoned TikTok’s management to come forward and provide an explanation immediately,” it said.
Earlier today, Malaysiakini had reported that at least three TikTok videos warning of a repeat of the deadly racial riot were paid for, although a spokesman from the company said it was unable to verify if politicians were providing financial backing.
All three videos are understood to have since been deleted from TikTok as part of the platform’s attempt to remove hostile contents following the 15th general election.
MCMC reminded that the dissemination of provocative content with the intent of causing disharmony, hate, and prejudice is an offence under the Penal Code, and that those found guilty will be subject to imprisonment and fine.
“MCMC and police will enhance efforts to curb the spread of such videos that can threaten public order,” said the statement.
The commission also advised the public against sharing such provocative content, and to immediately report to the authorities if they come across videos of similar nature that incite, provoke, or insult races, religions, or the royal institution. – The Vibes, November 30, 2022
