KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has identified over 600 fraudulent social media posts concerning the global energy crisis since March 29, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil revealed.
He noted that the misinformation primarily focused on sensitive economic topics, such as fuel prices, developments in the Strait of Hormuz, and broader global supply disruptions.
“Based on MCMC’s investigations, we cannot rule out coordinated efforts to spread false information, known as Coordinated Inauthentic Behaviour (CIB),” Fahmi said during his weekly press conference at Angkasapuri today.
The minister explained that the activity patterns indicate coordination, with posts featuring identical graphics, being shared simultaneously, and crafted for wide dissemination.
“This is because some posts use identical graphics, appear around the same time, and are aimed at wide distribution,” he said.
Fahmi cautioned that authorities are pursuing stringent action against those responsible for the misinformation.
He confirmed that five cases have been brought to court, while eight others received compounds.
“The total compounds issued amount to RM200,000, with each individual fined RM25,000,” he said.
The remaining cases are either under investigation or have been referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers for further action and legal advice, Fahmi added. – May 6, 2026