MCMC investigates individual for spreading false claims on diesel shipment to Philippines

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is investigating an individual suspected of spreading false news involving the supply of approximately 329,000 barrels of diesel fuel to the Philippines.

MCMC in a statement today said, authorities have confirmed that the diesel belongs to trading company Vitol, and not to Petronas or the Malaysian Government.

The communication device believed to have been used to upload the content was also seized to assist in the investigation.

“As of April 14 (Tuesday), a total of 47 investigation papers have been opened involving the spread of fake news about the global energy crisis on social media platforms and digital media following the conflict in West Asia. All cases are under further investigation,” it said

Among the false content that went viral were claims of fuel price hikes far exceeding the actual announcement, as well as allegations of an increase in electricity tariffs.

Claims also surfaced that Malaysian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz were required to pay tolls to Iran.

Other false claims included the alleged granting BUDI95 subsidy to Singaporean citizens and the alleged shipment of 329,000 barrels of diesel by Vitol to the Philippines, which was wrongly claimed to belong to Malaysia.

The investigation is being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), which provides for a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to two (2) years, or both, upon conviction.

“MCMC views seriously any misuse of digital platforms aimed at misleading the public through the dissemination of false information. Strict action will be taken against any party that violates the law,” the statement said