TikTok summoned to explain ‘paid’ provocative posts

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and police are summoning TikTok’s management to explain “paid content” warning of a repeat of the May 13, 1969, racial riots.

The MCMC said it is also continuing to monitor “provocative videos” circulating on the platform, which is spilling over to other social media.

“The spread of such provocative content with the intention to spark disharmony, hate, prejudice, and (hurt) other peoples’ feelings is a crime under the Penal Code that is punishable with a fine, imprisonment, or both, upon conviction.

“Any dissemination of such video is an irresponsible act that may cause disharmony, division, feelings of enmity, or prejudice in matters of race and religion.

“On that matter, the MCMC and the police will intensify efforts to curtail the spread of such videos that threaten the public peace,” the MCMC said in a statement tonight.

It was previously reported that TikTok videos warning of a recurrence of the racial riots were making the rounds following the 15th general election.

Earlier today, Malaysiakini reported that at least three such videos were “paid partnerships” with the platform.

However, TikTok told Malaysiakini it was unable to verify whether the videos had been sponsored by politicians.

It also declined to divulge how many videos exactly were paid for.

The news portal has also reported on a PAS member who allegedly sponsored attack advertisements on Facebook via a Perikatan Nasional-linked page.

Meanwhile, the MCMC urged netizens not to share and circulate provocative content or spread it from one social media platform to another.

It said sedition or provocative content, or those that are racist, insult religion, or the royal institution, should be reported to the MCMC.

This can be done through its website, its complaints hotline 1800-188-030, its WhatsApp number +60162206262, or via email at aduanskmm@mcmc.gov.my.

Misinformation can be reported to the Sebenarnya website. - Mkini