MCMC probing racially charged post linked to army general's promotion
PETALING JAYA : The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has recorded a statement from an individual suspected of uploading racially charged content on social media.
MCMC said the post was believed to refer to the recent promotion of a new lieutenant-general in the Malaysian Armed Forces, and had a narrative that could provoke unrest and threaten national unity.
'The individual was called in to provide a statement and assist with the investigation. MCMC also seized one mobile phone and a SIM card to facilitate the probe,' it said in a statement today.
The case is being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a maximum fine of RM500,000, up to two years' imprisonment, or both, upon conviction.
MCMC also reminded the public not to upload, share, or circulate content that touches on race, religion and royalty (3R), especially material that could divide the public or disturb societal harmony.
Although MCMC did not name the individual, the probe comes after Sungai Buloh PAS chief Zaharudin Muhammad drew criticism over a Facebook post speculating on the emergence of a 'first Malaysian Chinese prime minister' in the next 30 to 40 years.
The post included a screenshot of a news report on the promotion of lieutenant-general Johnny Lim, although Zaharudin later said that the image was only for illustration.
He later deleted the post and claimed that his remarks were taken out of context.
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