KUALA LUMPUR – The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has launched investigations into three cases involving TikTok videos suspected of inciting hostility, insulting the government, and imitating royal customs.
Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department Director, Datuk M Kumar, said that the first case involves a former civil servant who posted inciteful and derogatory comments about the government and national leaders on TikTok, Buletin TV3 reported.
This case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948, Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
The second case concerns a man who used TikTok to question the government’s handling of the incident in Kampung Sungai Baru, potentially fostering division and hostility among groups within the country. The investigation is being conducted under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948, Section 505(c) of the Penal Code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
The third case involves a video showing a family dressed in yellow attire and royal headgear, imitating royal customs during an aqiqah ceremony.
Authorities suspect that the family misused royal symbols, prompting an investigation under Section 3(1) of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963, Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Kumar stressed that these incidents demonstrate the misuse of social media and digital platforms to spread content that could incite hatred, insult individuals, or fuel division in society.
“The PDRM will take strict, uncompromising action against anyone found involved, and investigations will continue in accordance with the law,” he stated.
Kumar also urged the public to exercise caution and responsibility when posting statements or content, either publicly or on social media platforms.
The legal consequences for such offences include imprisonment of up to three years or a fine not exceeding RM5,000 under the Sedition Act, and a fine of up to RM1,000 under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963.
Section 505 of the Penal Code carries a potential prison term of up to two years or a fine, while Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 can result in a fine of up to RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to two years, or both. – September 16, 2025