Kota kinabalu: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has received a report concerning the circulation of false information on social media amidst the ongoing campaign for the 17th Sabah State Election, announced Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. The MCMC is set to collaborate with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to address the situation, especially targeting a social media user accused of inciting hatred against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo emphasized the importance of responsible social media usage during the campaign to curb the dissemination of false information. She noted that her ministry had not yet received any complaints from the Election Commission (EC) regarding candidates’ illegal activities on social media. In the event of such complaints, MCMC is prepared to assist in removing any infringing campaign materials.

Teo expressed optimism that the orderly conduct of the campaign would persist through the election period, ending on November 28. She observed that candidates were predominantly using social media for campaigning, leveraging the platform’s broad reach to connect with voters, including those difficult to engage face-to-face.

The EC has set November 25 for early voting, with the official polling day scheduled for November 29. Statistics from the EC indicate that 1,784,843 voters are eligible to participate in this state election, consisting of ordinary voters, military personnel and their spouses, and police personnel and their spouses.