PUTRAJAYA, April 18 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has opened an investigation into an individual suspected of spreading fake news regarding claims of diesel fuel supply to the Philippines.
In a statement today, MCMC confirmed that authorities have verified the diesel in question belongs to Vitol, an international trading company, and not to Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) or the Malaysian government, as had been alleged.
According to the statement, the individual was called in to give a statement yesterday, and the communication device used to upload the content has also been seized to assist with the probe.
"The investigation is being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), which provides for a fine of up to RM500,000, or imprisonment for a maximum of two years, or both, upon conviction," the statement read.
MCMC stressed that it takes seriously any misuse of social media and digital platforms to spread false information that could mislead the public.
"Firm enforcement action will be taken against any party that violates the law and threatens public order," the statement added.
-- BERNAMA
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