No religious or racial hate, social media users warned

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reminded social media users not to sow hatred or post provocative content against the royal institution and any race or religion.

MCMC interim chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din said the public should exercise prudence when using social media and avoid expressing negative views involving race and religion.

“All parties should respect the election results and the selection of the prime minister that will be made by the Yang di-pertuan Agong with an open heart,” he said in a statement yesterday that was picked up by Bernama.

He added that the MCMC would continue monitoring to curb the spread of false and/or offensive statements involving such sensitive subjects, adding that sharing any false, offensive and threatening content is an offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The fines for those convicted can be up to RM50,000, a year in jail, or both, he said.

Mohamad Salim added that joint enforcement action with the police would be taken against those involved based on complaints from members of the public in accordance with existing legal provisions to protect public order.

The public can report provocative or insulting content to MCMC through https://aduan.skmm.gov. my/ or https://sebenarnya.my/salur/