The MCMC has questioned the alleged administrator of a Facebook page that purportedly depicted Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah in an insulting manner.
The image, which had gone viral over the weekend, purportedly depicted a pig dressed in royal ceremonial attire, accompanied by a caption containing vulgar remarks aimed at the sultan.
The MCMC said the investigation against the “HuaYan The Pureland Learning Centre” Facebook account is being conducted in close cooperation with the police.
The MCMC’s investigation is under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which is punishable with a fine of up to RM500,000, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
The police are investigating the case under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 504 of the Penal Code.
Sedition is punishable with a fine of up to RM5,000, up to three years’ imprisonment, or both.
Meanwhile, under Section 504 of the Penal Code, an intentional insult with the intent to provoke a breach of the peace is punishable with a fine, two years’ imprisonment, or both.
“The MCMC views the spread of grossly offensive content against the royal institutions seriously because it jeopardises public confidence as well as social harmony and public order.
“Members of the public are urged to use social media ethically and responsibly, and any offensive, provocative, or libellous content – especially that involves the royal institutions – will face stern action in accordance with the law,” it said in a statement today.
21 reports lodged
Earlier today, Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department director M Kumar said 21 police reports have been lodged over the matter nationwide and confirmed that an investigation is underway.
The Selangor Council of the Royal Court, which has also lodged a report at the Shah Alam district police headquarters, urged the Communications Ministry to ensure social media users behave responsibly and ethically when posting content.
Selangor exco members Najwan Halimi, Fahmi Ngah, and Ng Sze Han condemned the social media post.
Najwan described the post as deeply offensive, disrespectful, and dangerous, adding that he personally felt insulted as a loyal son of Selangor upon seeing the image being circulated. - Mkini
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