TAPAH, April 10 – The public, particularly social media influencers, are reminded to refrain from sharing content that is obscene, extreme, defamatory, or false, as such actions may lead to legal consequences.

This reminder comes ahead of the Ayer Kuning State Legislative Assembly (DUN) by-election on April 26, with nomination day scheduled for this Saturday.

"Since February 11, 2025, amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 have come into effect. Violations involving the sharing of obscene, defamatory, false content or content related to cyberbullying may result in a fine of up to RM500,000 if convicted in court, or a compound of RM250,000 if settled beforehand," said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.

He made the statement during the “Relaxed Chat with the Civil Community” program at the Batang Padang District Information Office, held for the DUN N.48 Ayer Kuning community.

Fahmi also confirmed that the political influencer involved in the recent controversy over students singing the national anthem in Chinese has been detained by the police to assist with investigations. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has also launched an investigation into the case.

Additionally, Fahmi urged the public to verify any information they receive—especially through platforms like WhatsApp—by cross-checking it with credible mainstream news sources before sharing.

"Don't become a channel for spreading slander, especially on issues that have not been verified. Please be cautious," he added.