KOTA KINABALU: The public has been warned against posting or sharing unverified and defamatory posts against the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah.
Sabah Attorney General Datuk Brenndon Keith Soh said the state had noted with "grave concern" the circulation of offensive, defamatory, false and misleading social media posts concerning the Sabah TYT.
"These posts contain information that is wholly baseless, inaccurate and risks undermining public confidence and trust in the institution," Soh said in a statement issued here Friday (Aug 29).
He reminded the public that while freedom of expression was recognised and protected under the Federal Constitution, it must be exercised responsibly.
He said deliberate dissemination of offensive, fabricated or misleading information was harmful to public trust and could be a criminal offence under the law, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Sedition Act 1949 and the Penal Code.
The state Attorney General’s Chambers is urging all individuals to verify information through official and reliable sources before sharing it online.
"Responsible use of social media is essential to maintaining a respectful and informed public space," he said.
He said that the state would take legal measures, if considered necessary, to address and prevent the deliberate spread of falsehoods and safeguard public order and harmony in the state.
"We remain committed to upholding the rule of law while encouraging constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and accurate dissemination of information. These are the hallmarks of a mature democracy in our state and nation," he said.
Soh urged members of the public to work together in fostering a culture of truthfulness, integrity, and accountability in all forms of communication.
"Istana Seri Kinabalu represents a symbol of our beloved State’s history and values that require the utmost respect for its significance in the eyes of the community.
"This requires that we collectively protect the dignity and honour of the TYT of Sabah as our noble institution," he said.
The state Attorney General’s Chambers reiterated the importance of preserving the integrity and dignity of the office of the TYT as an honoured institution.
He said that the Sabah TYT was appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as an essential part of the constitutional framework and must be respected as a symbol of unity, continuity and sovereignty.
