What is the real purpose behind the viral resurfacing of the 2018 video?

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Viral Video Resurfacing Aims to Incite Public Anger and Confusion

A four-year-old video clip featuring a racial speech and referencing a December 8 rally has been recirculated online by what the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani described as "irresponsible quarters." The IGP stated that the resurfacing of this 2018 footage is intended to provoke public anger and confusion, creating the false impression that a rally is scheduled for December 8, 2022. There is currently no information indicating any planned rallies for that date, and authorities are prepared to take firm action against any gatherings that may disrupt public peace.
Incitement of Public Anger and Confusion

The primary objective behind the renewed circulation of the 2018 video is to deliberately incite public anger and sow confusion. This tactic aims to mislead the public into believing that a rally is imminent on December 8, 2022, despite the absence of any official information supporting such an event. The video, originally recorded during discussions surrounding the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), has been weaponised to create a false sense of urgency and unrest.
Historical Context of the Video

The video in question originates from 2018, a period when Malaysia was considering the ratification of the ICERD. The rally mentioned within the clip, which took place on December 8, 2018, was initially organised as a protest against the Pakatan Harapan government's intention to adopt this international treaty aimed at combating racial discrimination. Following objections from Malay Muslim groups, the government ultimately decided against ratifying ICERD, leading to the rebranding of the rally as a "thanksgiving" event by its organisers, including Umno and PAS supporters.
Legal Ramifications for Spreading Misinformation

Authorities are urging the public not to further disseminate the video, emphasizing that responsible social media usage is crucial in preventing the spread of fake news. Individuals found to have shared the clip could face legal action under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act. Section 505(b) addresses the circulation of statements or rumours intended to cause public fear or alarm, carrying a penalty of up to two years' imprisonment or a fine, or both. Section 233 pertains to the improper use of network facilities or services, punishable by up to one year in jail or a fine of up to RM50,000, or both, with additional daily fines for continued offences.

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What is the real purpose behind the viral resurfacing of the 2018 video?

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