Minister a victim of fake news
Online post alleges Ismail Sabri does not welcome S’poreans here
Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has become the latest victim of fake news which alleged that he does not welcome Singaporeans into the country.
During his daily briefing yesterday, he showed a printed screencap of a social media post, which purportedly claimed that he did not welcome Singaporeans to Malaysia.
Such allegations could undermine the close relationship between Malaysia and Singapore, he said.
“The truth is, our borders are still closed to everyone, including Singaporeans, so such an allegation is malicious. I have lodged a report with the police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC),” he said.
He also said that the vocals in his speech in the post was electronically modified.
“I think many Malaysians are familiar with the sound of my voice but maybe not Singaporeans as they don’t watch (my) press conference,” he said.
He said that as of yesterday, the number of investigation papers opened by the police and MCMC on fake news in relation with Covid-19 remained at 266.
He said new investigation papers had not been opened in the past two weeks, which showed that the people were becoming more aware and avoided sharing fake news.
“However, the police and MCMC will continue to monitor the spread of fake news. People are reminded to be careful before sharing unverified news,” he said, adding that they could go to the sebenarnya.my website to verify the information they received.
On the wedding planner sector, Ismail Sabri said the industry could submit its standard operating procedure (SOP) suggestions to the National Security Council (MKN).
He said industries and business premises were opened in stages during the various phases of the movement control order (MCO).
“Similarly for weddings, first we allowed online marriage solemnisation for Muslims, then we allowed face-to-face solemnisation with fewer than 20 people present. We will be opening up sooner and maybe allow bigger numbers from time to time.
“Eventually, wedding banquets will be permitted. However all of this will be done after discussions with MKN and the Health Ministry,” he said.