THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has imposed fines of RM100,000 each on Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad and Sinar Karangkraf Sdn. Bhd. after receiving approval to compound the offences from the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).
The action against Sin Chew Media Corporation was taken following an MCMC investigation which found the organisation had published an incomplete illustration of the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia’s national flag, on its digital newspaper platform.
In a separate case, Sinar Karangkraf Sdn. Bhd. was fined for publishing false information on its official Instagram account. The content in question involved an inaccurate profile about the Inspector-General of Police, containing claims linked to senior leadership in a local political party.
Both cases were investigated under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 [Act 588], with penalties enforced under Section 233(2). The compounds were issued pursuant to Section 243 of the same Act.
In a statement, MCMC stressed that “the Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of national sovereignty, unity and dignity and must be displayed accurately and with full respect at all times.”
It added that the dissemination of false content involving national security institutions could “undermine public order and erode public confidence in law enforcement authorities.”
The commission issued a reminder to all media organisations and social media users to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of all published content, particularly when it involves national symbols and official emblems.
“MCMC will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts and roll out digital literacy initiatives to preserve national harmony and stability,” the statement added. - September 19, 2025
