KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched an investigation against a Facebook user suspected of uploading offensive and provocative content aimed at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
It is understood that the MCMC received reports regarding the user’s post, which allegedly contained false information and grossly offensive remarks directed at the prime minister on the latter’s Facebook page.
The post is believed to have violated Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 [Act 588], which deals with the improper use of network facilities or services.
To assist with the investigation, enforcement officers have seized one mobile phone and one SIM card believed to have been used in the offence.
However, the MCMC official declined to comment on the case as the matter was still under investigation.
The section stipulates that any individual who makes, creates, or initiates the transmission of any comment, request, suggestion, or communication that is obscene, indecent, false, menacing, or offensive in nature—with the intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass another person—may be deemed guilty of an offence.
If convicted, the individual may face a fine not exceeding RM500,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both.
When contacted, MCMC emphasised that such acts are taken seriously, especially when they involve the spread of false or inflammatory content that could undermine public order or provoke hatred towards national leaders.
The MCMC has consistently reminded the public to exercise greater responsibility when using social media and other online platforms, urging users not to misuse these channels to circulate defamatory, seditious or provocative content that could lead to unrest or damage reputations.
The public has also been advised to verify the authenticity of information before sharing it online and to refrain from uploading any form of content that could be deemed defamatory or harmful. – July 24, 2025