‘Viral message about soldiers to use force is fake’

PETALING JAYA: A voice message being spread on WhatsApp claiming that the Armed Forces will resort to hitting anyone who breaks the movement control order (MCO) is fake.

Armed Forces chief Jen Tan Sri Affendi Buang (pic) assured Malaysians that the military will not resort to violence as it collaborates with police to enforce the MCO aimed at stopping the spread of Covid-19.

“Please stop spreading such messages because it can cause panic among the people, ” he said.

In the 39-second message in Bahasa Malaysia, the alleged source claimed that the military would not hesitate to beat up anyone found violating the MCO.

“I can’t call everyone, so I’ll just put it in this group. The army has made preparations (and) it looks like anyone found violating the MCO will be beaten up. No questions asked, ” the message said.

Jen Affendi warned against spreading the fake message, saying anyone caught spreading fake news can be charged.

Offenders may also be liable to a further fine of RM1,000 for every day the offence is continued upon conviction.

Jen Affendi said people do not need to be afraid to see the military enforcing the MCO as it is its secondary duty during peacetime.

Instead, he said Malaysians should comply with the MCO.