BALIK PULAU: The public must refrain from creating or sharing fake videos generated using artificial intelligence (AI), especially during times of disaster, says an exco member.
Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said this in response to a video claiming that a landslide in Paya Terubong submerged several vehicles, an allegation that has since been confirmed to be false.
According to Zairil, the seven-second clip was an AI-doctored fake, digitally altered from an existing video.
He criticised those responsible, saying such actions could incite unnecessary panic and confusion among the public.
"Hopefully, those involved will act more responsibly, especially during sensitive times like these,” he said in a Facebook post on Friday (Oct 24).
Authorities confirmed that a landslide and waterlogging incident occurred in the Bukit Paya Terubong area along Tingkat Paya Terubong 4 on Friday, but clarified that the situation was far less severe than what was depicted in the fake video.
Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah said the incident, which occurred at 2.41pm following heavy rain, did not result in any injuries or fatalities.
The downpour caused soil from the hilltop, about 100 metres high, to slide and fill the parking area of a nearby housing complex, resulting in water overflow onto the road.
"Monitoring at the site found 12 vehicles in the affected area. Our team has provided advice and assisted the owners in moving their vehicles to a safer location,” he added. – Bernama
