Sin Chew Sinar Harian Fined Rm100k For Flag Misuse False Content

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MCMC says it received approval to compound the offences from the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission reminded media organisations and social media users to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of published content at all times. (MCMC pic)PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has imposed fines of RM100,000 each on Sin Chew Media Corporation Bhd and Sinar Karangkraf Sdn Bhd following recent infractions by the media outlets
MCMC said the fine on Sin Chew was imposed after the organisation uploaded an incomplete illustration of the Jalur Gemilang in its digital newspaper.
Meanwhile, Sinar Karangkraf was fined over a post on its official Instagram account that contained false information about Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail’s alleged involvement in a local political party.
In a statement, MCMC said the Jalur Gemilang was a symbol of the nation’s sovereignty, unity and dignity, and must always be accurately displayed.
It added that the spread of false information could undermine public order and erode public confidence in the authorities.
“All media organisations and social media users are reminded to always ensure the accuracy and authenticity of published content, particularly when it involves national symbols and emblems,” MCMC said.
MCMC said it had received approval to issue the compounds from the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
Both cases were investigated under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, with penalties enforced under Section 233(2). The compounds were issued pursuant to Section 243 of the same Act.
In April, Sin Chew Daily suspended its chief editor, Chan Aun Kuang, and deputy chief sub-editor, Tsai Shwu San, over the depiction of the Jalur Gemilang without the crescent moon on the front page of its newspaper.
Sin Chew apologised for the mistake and said it would strengthen its review procedures for publications, particularly regarding the use of artificial intelligence.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim was among those who weighed in on the controversy, saying Sin Chew’s mistake was unacceptable and that the news outlet should have been more vigilant.
In June, meanwhile, the Sinar Harian newspaper apologised for a blunder in a social media graphic that falsely described Khalid as a member of PKR.
Sinar Harian said the error arose from the use of an outdated design template previously used in a poster featuring Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul, a PKR member and former Kedah PKR chief.
Khalid, who was then the Special Branch director, was appointed inspector-general of police on June 20. - FMT

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