MCMC probes social media influencer over alleged false claims involving Royal Institution

LocalPolitics
28 Apr 2025 • 6:19 PM MYT
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THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched an investigation into a social media influencer accused of spreading false information linking the Royal Institution.

In a statement released by the MCMC today, the individual in question has undergone two interview sessions at the Commission’s headquarters in Cyberjaya—on Friday and again today. The investigation follows public complaints made under provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998).

“Initial investigations found that the content associated with the influencer involved the dissemination of baseless false information and linked it to the Royal Institution,” MCMC said.

The statement also noted that, in addition to the false claims, there were attempts to expose individuals’ personal information without consent, with the alleged intent to "offend, distress, threaten or harass" others.

The MCMC warned that such actions have the potential to cause public unrest, spread defamation, threaten the safety of involved individuals, and violate both communications law and data protection regulations.

“The influencer’s actions have the potential to incite public unease, disseminate slander, invite threats to the safety of those involved, and breach communication laws and personal data protection,” the statement added.

MCMC emphasised its commitment to investigating all complaints in accordance with the law, regardless of an individual’s status, popularity, or influence.

“Each investigation is carried out professionally, based on fair procedures and in line with legal provisions under the CMA 1998. This is an initial step in gathering relevant information,” the MCMC said.

The public has also been reminded that the dissemination of content involving the sensitive 3R issues—religion, race, and royalty—that is threatening, intrusive, or violates personal privacy is a serious offence and may result in legal action under existing laws. - April 28, 2025