File photo for illustration purposes
KUCHING: Netizens spreading fake or unverified news about the Wuhan coronavirus will be dealt with sternly by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).
Following strict warnings that action would be taken against those spreading fake or unverified news on the Wuhan coronavirus, a netizen was nabbed by the authorities for allegedly doing so.
MCMC, along with PDRM, arrested a 34-year-old man at his house in Bangi yesterday while his mobile phone and SIM card were also confiscated, MCMC said in a statement.
He is being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act, which provides for a year in jail and a maximum fine of RM50,000 or both.
The offender is liable to a further fine of RM1,000 for every day or part of a day during which the offence is continued after conviction.
“Such stern action is part of MCMC’s efforts and the police to control the spread of fake news on the coronavirus outbreak by irresponsible individuals, to the extend of threatening the stability of the country and public order.
“Those who spread fake news with the intention of causing public fear can be charged under Section 505 of the Penal Code, where those found guilty would be jailed up to two years, or fined, or both,” added MCMC.
MCMC and PDRM are also tracking four other netizens for similar alleged offences.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigations Department (CID) director Huzir Mohamed also issued a similar statement saying that PDRM had opened five investigation papers against netizens spreading fake or unverified news about the Wuhan coronavirus.