MCMC and police probe fake news inciting hatred against PM Anwar during Sabah election campaign, with no EC complaints received so far
SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has received reports of false information circulating on social media during the Sabah state election campaign.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching confirmed the commission is investigating the matter with police assistance.
She said authorities would take action against a social media user who uploaded content inciting Sabahans to hate Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Teo urged the public to use social media responsibly throughout the campaign period to prevent false information from spreading.
The ministry has not received any complaints from the Election Commission regarding campaigning offences on social media platforms to date.
“If there are complaints from the EC, MCMC may assist in taking down the candidate’s campaign materials,” she said during a visit to the Communications Ministry Media Centre.
Teo expressed hope this positive situation would continue until the campaign period ends on November 28.
She noted that almost all candidates are using social media as a campaign medium to reach voters more effectively.
Social media has become a common platform for candidates to share views and present themselves as potential representatives.
“However, I hope all candidates will use the internet ethically and responsibly throughout the campaign,” she added.
The EC has set November 25 for early voting, with polling day scheduled for November 29.
According to EC statistics, 1,784,843 voters are eligible to cast ballots in this state election.
This includes 1,760,417 ordinary voters, 11,697 military personnel and spouses, and 12,729 police personnel and spouses. – Bernama
