Kuala lumpur: A total of 464 pieces of false content related to the global supply crisis were identified between March 29 and April 30, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. She announced that 312 of these items had been successfully taken down. Furthermore, 65 investigation papers were opened, with 15 cases referred to the Attorney-General's Chambers, while others remain under investigation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo highlighted the rapid spread of misinformation, which is being amplified by artificial intelligence (AI), posing a significant challenge to public trust. Cases of fraudulent content, including fake accounts and impersonation of public figures, have surged sharply, rising from 6,297 cases in 2023 to 63,652 in 2024, and further to 98,503 in 2025. As of April 30 this year alone, 60,829 such content items have already been taken down by platforms.
Teo emphasized the importance of maintaining credibility in journalism amid the evolving digital landscape. She also advocated for a more significant role for the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) and a more measured approach in handling media-related issues. This call comes in light of Malaysia's placement at 95th in the latest Reporters Without Borders index, compared with 88th previously, reflecting ongoing concerns in the media landscape.
Teo acknowledged that while journalist safety has improved, declines in the media economy and legislative environment remain a concern. She stressed that journalism is a pillar of democracy and disputes over reporting should be resolved through the MMC as the primary arbiter.
The MMC, established in February last year, serves as an independent self-regulatory body aimed at upholding journalistic ethics, formulating a code of conduct, and safeguarding the welfare of media practitioners. Governed by a board comprising representatives from media organisations, practitioners, and public interest groups, including academics and civil society, the council ensures representation from Sabah and Sarawak as well as gender balance.