THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has escalated its crackdown on digital misinformation by recording a statement from an individual suspected of spreading false claims concerning an alleged supply of diesel from Malaysia to the Philippines recently.
The suspect, accompanied by legal representation, surrendered to authorities at the commission headquarters in Cyberjaya to facilitate the ongoing inquiry into content that officials describe as potentially disruptive to public order.
As part of the enforcement operation, investigators confiscated a mobile phone and a SIM card believed to have been utilised in the transmission of the contentious online posts.
The commission confirmed that these measures were executed under the legal framework of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to ensure the integrity of the evidence gathered.
The action was taken under Section 248 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, the commission stated, further clarifying that the probe is specifically focused on violations of Section 233 of the same Act, MCMC said in a statement released on Friday.
The regulator added this particular provision governs the improper use of network facilities, and individuals found guilty under this section face severe judicial penalties, including a maximum fine of RM500,000, a prison term of up to two years, or both.
Officials underscored that the spread of fabricated information on social media and digital platforms is being treated with the utmost seriousness, particularly when such content has the potential to mislead the citizenry or destabilise national harmony.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous enforcement against any entities or individuals found to be manipulating digital services for the purpose of spreading misinformation.
Firm enforcement action will be taken against any party found to be in violation of the law or involved in disseminating misinformation, the regulator added, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to cyber offences that impact national interests. - April 24, 2026
