Seputeh MP decries fake news 

Seputeh MP Teresa Kok dismissed a widely circulated news article on social media, as fake news that described her as anti-Islam.

“Fake news about me has resurfaced on social media ahead of the by-election in Sungai Bakap.

“If anyone sees this article in WhatsApp groups or on social media, please inform your friends that I never made such a ridiculous statement,” she said via a Facebook post. 

Alongside the post was a picture of the article.

The article is titled “Teresa Kok Disagrees That Islam Is the Official Religion of the Federation” and was published in Wangsa Daily. 

Even though the content was ruled defamatory by the High Court in 2020, the article is still circulating on social media and instant messaging apps.

Wangsa Daily cited blogger Abu Leman as the original source.

In a related development, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced on June 22 that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will intensify monitoring of online platforms to detect and address inappropriate comments and misinformation.

“The concern we have is people who may use fake accounts to try and stir things up or spread misinformation.

“I want to caution all supporters to always behave well on the internet, including not posting unkind comments or breaking the law, especially sensitive content related to race, religion and royalty (3R),” he said, reported The Star.

The upcoming Sungai Bakap by-election will see a straight fight between PH candidate Dr Joohari Ariffin and PN candidate Abidin Ismail.

The by-election is slated for July 6, with nominations on June 22 and early voting on July 2.