PETALING JAYA: Four individuals have been identified to assist in investigations for disseminating false information on the 2019 Novel Coronovirus (2019 nCoV).
The and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commision (MCMC) said in a joint statement today they would not tolerate those who spread fake news and they are closely monitoring social media posts.
“We will take serious action against any party that spreads false information that results in fear, panic or resentment,“ it said.
Additionally it would also cause further disruption and harm to the country’s stability.
“Those who spread fake news may face action under Section 505 of the Penal Code which is a jail term up to two years or fine or both,” it said.
Besides that, they could also be prosecuted under Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998 which is a maximum fine of RM100,000 or a year in jail or both.
They encouraged the public to refer to the official news updates issued by the health ministry (MOH) www.moh.gov.my.
