Citizens who spread fake news regarding COVID-19 may be issued a fine of up to RM100,000.
The fine which comes into effect starting today also involves individuals who spread fake news regarding the emergency proclamation, besides a jail sentence.
The punishment is listed under the Emergency (Essential Powers) (No. 2) Ordinance 2021 of the Federal Government Gazette, which was issued yesterday (March 11).
Should the punishments be not terrifying enough, offenders might be subject to heavier subsequent fines of up to RM1,000 per day, if they continuously commit similar offences after conviction.
Also mentioned in the gazette, individuals who do not perform the responsibility of removing publications containing fake news will also be fined not more than RM100,000 if convicted.
In the event of continuity, they might be subject to subsequent fines of RM3,000 per day after conviction.
Each offence under the ordinance is also an offence subject to arrests.
Rosli Mansor
=============================
Get your local news fast. Download the Ipoh Echo App on your mobile. Available on both Google Playstore and Apple Appstore.
