KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry has denied claims that the military's top leadership, including the Armed Forces Chief, has been dismissed in connection with a multi-billion Ringgit helicopter contract.
Earlier, news went viral alleging that the Armed Forces Chief, along with the Navy Chief, Air Force Chief, and Army Chief, had been fired over a RM16bil helicopter contract.
The statement also claimed that a major reshuffle is occurring in the Armed Forces (ATM).
"We deny the authenticity of the statement and confirm any dismissal or transfer in the ATM is not related to a leasing process of helicopters.
"We have since lodged a fake news report with the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and a police report to ensure necessary action is taken against those who spread the false information," the ministry said on Wednesday (January 15).
The ministry also urged the public not to be easily influenced by viral news on social media, as it could lead to a negative perception of the nation's defence.
"The spread of this fake news is an offence under Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998," the ministry added.
