KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has opened eight investigation papers into the online spread of a defamatory article falsely linking lawmaker Teresa Kok to a proposal on halal certification for pork-based food sales.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the MCMC had received initial information reports regarding the circulation of the false content and had identified all suspects involved.
“This is extremely irresponsible. The allegation suggests the Seputeh MP issued a statement calling for halal certification for pork sales, which is entirely false,” he said on Wednesday (Feb 4).
Fahmi said this in the Dewan Rakyat during the winding-up debate on the Communications Ministry’s motion of thanks for the Royal Address.
He said statements had been recorded from the suspects and investigations were ongoing under Section 233(1) of the Communications and Multimedia Act, which covers the improper use of network facilities or services.
According to Fahmi, forensic analysis is still underway, with four cases already referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers, while two more are expected to be submitted in the near term for further action.
Kok had earlier urged authorities, including the police and the MCMC, to act against the defamatory article, saying it incited hatred among Muslims and threatened social harmony.
