If you've come across a Facebook post claiming that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is proposing to allow Rohingya to apply for driving licences in Malaysia, don't take it at face value.
JPJ has officially denied the viral claim, which appeared in a Facebook post titled "JPJ Cadang Benarkan Rohingya Ambil Lesen Memandu?" and was presented in a manner resembling a news report.
And the department isn't simply issuing a clarification. JPJ has also reported the matter to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for investigation and further action.
CARZ FACT CHECK THE CLAIM: JPJ is proposing to allow Rohingya to obtain driving licences in Malaysia. VERDICT: FALSE WHY: JPJ has officially denied the viral statement and reported the matter to MCMC for further action. What Exactly Went Viral?According to JPJ, the claim was published through the Facebook account Along Auto Parts in a post carrying the headline "JPJ Cadang Benarkan Rohingya Ambil Lesen Memandu?"
The post was presented in a style resembling a news report and used JPJ-related imagery, potentially giving readers the impression that the information was legitimate.
The claim also gained considerable attention before JPJ's denial. Bernama reported that when it checked the Facebook account at 9.15 AM on Sept 24, the post was still online and had accumulated more than 1,800 comments and 325 shares.
JPJ's position is clear: the viral statement has been denied by the department. The department said it takes seriously the creation, alteration or distribution of content using JPJ's name, identity or imagery in a manner that could mislead the public and affect its credibility. JPJ subsequently lodged a report with MCMC, allowing the matter to be investigated and appropriate action to be considered.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? Don't immediately share viral information involving JPJ if its authenticity cannot be verified. Check the department's official channels first, particularly when a post claims to announce a new policy or rule.The Bottom Line
Saw a post claiming JPJ is proposing to let Rohingya obtain driving licences? JPJ says the claim is false.
The department has reported the matter to MCMC for investigation and further action, while reminding the public not to spread information whose authenticity hasn't been established.
When in doubt, particularly when a viral post claims that JPJ has introduced or proposed a new rule, check JPJ's official channels before hitting share.
