What legal action is MCMC taking against those spreading fake news?

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MCMC Investigates 17 Individuals for Spreading Misinformation on Fuel and Electricity Prices

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively investigating 17 individuals for allegedly disseminating false information concerning fuel price increases and new electricity tariffs across social media platforms. To date, statements have been formally recorded from eight individuals involved in these cases.
Investigation Under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998

The MCMC's investigation is being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, also known as Act 588. This legal framework allows for stringent action against the misuse of network facilities or network services to transmit or attempt to transmit any comment, request, suggestion or other communication which is obscene, indecent, false, menacing or offensive in character with the intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any person.
Penalties for Convicted Individuals

Upon conviction under Section 233 of Act 588, individuals found guilty of spreading false information face significant penalties. These include a maximum fine of RM500,000, a prison sentence of up to two years, or a combination of both the fine and imprisonment. The MCMC has emphasized its serious view of any platform misuse intended to mislead the public, noting that such actions can incite panic and anxiety.
Cases Related to Fuel Price Hikes and Electricity Tariffs

The current investigations encompass a total of 17 individuals, with specific attention given to cases involving fuel price hikes and new electricity tariffs. Of these, five cases are directly related to false posts concerning fuel prices, with statements recorded from three suspects previously and two more yesterday. Additionally, three cases are focused on misinformation regarding new electricity tariffs. The MCMC continues to monitor the remaining nine suspects, who will be summoned for statement recording soon.

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What legal action is MCMC taking against those spreading fake news?

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