THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received 29 complaints involving the spread of fake news, hate speech and online fraud throughout the Johor state election campaign period from 1 June to 9 July.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said 17 of the complaints involved alleged dissemination of false information, while 11 were related to hate speech and one involved an online scam.
She said nine of the hate speech complaints were linked to racial issues, while one each involved religious matters and the institution of the monarchy.
"Throughout the campaign period from 1 June to 9 July 2026, MCMC received 29 complaints related to fake news, hate speech and fraud that occurred during the campaign.
"Of that number, we have already requested the relevant platforms to take action against the reported content," Harian Metro reported her saying today.
Teo, who is also DAP Johor chairman, made the remarks after casting her vote at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Kulai Besar.
She arrived at the polling centre at 9.20am, completed her voting at 9.30am and left the area at about 9.45am. Also present was Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Bukit Permai state seat, Mohamad Shafwan Ani.
Teo urged voters to remain cautious about unverified information and avoid being influenced by hateful content circulating on social media during the election period.
"Today is the day for Johor voters to make their choice. I urge all voters to verify every piece of information they receive and not be easily influenced by fake news or statements containing hate speech.
"Be digitally literate and responsible voters," she said. - July 11, 2026