TikTok Is Being Investigated For Sponsored 13 May Videos That Went Viral In GE15
At least three sponsored videos that warn of a repeat of the 13 May riots were found on the social media platform.
By Aqasha Nalani — 01 Dec 2022, 11:39 AM
Police and multimedia regulators have summoned TikTok's management to explain three sponsored videos on its platform that warn of a repeat of the 13 May 1969 riots
"The dissemination of provocative content with the intent to cause discord, hatred, and prejudice is a violation of Act 574 of the Penal Code, and will result in a penalty, jail sentence, or both if convicted," said The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in a statement released yesterday, 30 November.
It went on to say that spreading such content on social media is irresponsible because it could incite hatred and spark an unnecessary racial war.
Meanwhile, MCMC urged the public to report any content on any social media platforms that contains incitement, provocation, or insult to any religion or race at https://aduan.skmm.gov.my/.
On Monday, 21 November, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) urged the public to refrain from uploading and sharing social media content that discusses sensitive issues involving race and religion
"During GE15 and before the formation of the next federal government, we have warned social media users against uploading content that touches on racial and religious issues," said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani in a statement.
Acryl Sani added that users who attempt to jeopardise public safety and order will face harsh penalties under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Penal Code.
On 22 November, TikTok told SAYS that they have zero tolerance for any form of hate speech or violent extremism
"As it relates to 13 May content, we quickly removed videos that were in violation of our Community Guidelines," they said.
TikTok added that they will remain on high alert and will aggressively remove any violative content, such as video, audio, livestream, images, comments, links, or other text.
They also encouraged TikTok users and community members to use their in-app reporting function to report any harmful content as soon as possible.
"Since the lead-up to the elections, we have been in constant communication with the relevant bodies, including the MCMC, about accounts that are involved in severe or repeated on-platform violations,” they said.
