Hoax Fuel Prices in Malaysia Leads to Legal Process, One Person Will Be Tried

JAKARTA - Malaysian authorities are cracking down on the spread of false news or hoaxes about rising fuel prices. One person will be charged in court, five others will be fined or fined administratively outside the court, while four people will receive warnings.

As reported by Malay Mail, quoted Thursday, April 16, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said the decision was made after receiving the results from the Attorney General's Office on the case investigation file.

In his statement, MCMC said one case would be processed in the Sepang Sessions Court, Malaysia. Five other cases were offered a fine. The remaining four cases were given a warning letter.

MCMC has also issued five administrative compound or fines outside the court to the parties involved. The value is 25,000 Malaysian ringgit for each person.

According to MCMC, all of these actions are the result of an investigation based on Article 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. This rule carries a maximum fine of 500,000 Malaysian ringgit, a prison sentence of up to two years, or both, if found guilty.

This case started with the spread of false news or hoaxes about the increase in fuel prices in the midst of the West Asian crisis. Issues like this are considered sensitive because they concern daily needs and easily trigger unrest.

MCMC asked Malaysians to be more careful when using digital platforms. The institution reminded the public not to participate in spreading content that could disrupt public order and community harmony.