TikTok called up by MCMC, cops over provocative videos

PETALING JAYA: The TikTok management has been called up by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to explain itself regarding three sponsored videos on its platform that warn of a recurrence of the May 13, 1969 riots.

“MCMC, through cooperation with PDRM, has also called up the TikTok management to provide an immediate explanation on the matter.

“The spread of provocative content to cause disharmony, hatred and prejudice are an offence under the Penal Code (Act 574), and will result in a penalty, jail sentence or both if convicted guilty,” it said in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 30).

MCMC said spreading such content was an irresponsible act and could cause disharmony, friction and hatred especially in the context of race and religion.

“The MCMC and PDRM will continue in its efforts to prevent the circulation of such videos which can threaten public safety,” it said.

It also advised the public not to share such videos and to report such comments to the MCMC through its portal; https://aduan.skmm.gov.my/; its hotline [phone] or through Whatsapp at 016 2206 262.

On Saturday (Nov 26), Parti Amanah Negara national mobility chief Mohd Sany Hamzan also called for swift police actions after several social media posts touching on racial sensitivities were detected recently.

Mohd Sany Hamzan said they detected nine posts on Facebook and TikTok which incited racial issues and had lodged a police report at the Dang Wangi police headquarters on that same day.

On Nov 21, the police also warned the public not to create tension or any provocation on social media that could threaten public safety and order.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said this after the police detected social media users uploading content with racial or religious sentiments and insults towards the royal institution following the 15th general election (GE15) results and the then formation of the government.