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POLICE in Johor have launched an investigation into a fabricated video generated using artificial intelligence depicting His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, purportedly announcing financial assistance to the public in what authorities believe is an attempt to defraud viewers.
Johor Police Chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said a report was lodged on 25 February 2026 after a complainant viewed the video on the social media platform TikTok.
The clip allegedly showed the King informing the public of a financial aid initiative, but investigations have confirmed that the content was falsified and produced using AI technology.
“Preliminary investigations found that the TikTok profile in question is believed to be fake and was created specifically to upload AI-generated videos to deceive the public and, indirectly, tarnish the image of the Royal Institution,” he said in a statement.
He added that police have not ruled out the possibility that other accounts may be employing similar methods, misusing AI technology to manipulate the likeness of high-profile individuals in order to lend credibility to fraudulent content and gain public trust.
“Uploading such content constitutes an offence and may be investigated under Section 420/511 of the Penal Code for attempted cheating, as well as Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.
“So far, no victims have been identified and no financial losses have been reported,” he said.
Johor Police are working closely with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to identify the account holder responsible and to take appropriate action, including the immediate removal of the content.
Members of the public have been urged not to be easily influenced by suspicious or unofficial images and videos circulating on social media, and instead to verify information through official channels of the Palace and the Johor state government.
Those with relevant information have been asked to come forward to assist in the investigation. - February 26, 2026
