The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have denied claims by viral social media postings alleging that the suspect who stormed the stage and attempted to hug Perak ruler, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, during the state-level Merdeka Day celebrations in Ipoh, Perak, was a Chinese woman.
According to an official statement by PDRM, Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) Director Datuk M. Kumar said that the suspect arrested over the incident was a 41-year-old local Malay woman.
PDRM warn against the spreading of false information that could lead to public unrest
“A urine test was also conducted on the suspect, and the results were negative,” he explained.
This case is currently being investigated under Section 325 of the Penal Code for intentionally causing grievous bodily harm, which can carry a prison sentence of up to 7 years and a fine, as well as Section 511 of the Penal Code for attempting to commit an offence.
In regard to the spread of false information about the suspect’s identity on social media, Datuk M. Kumar shared that investigations are being conducted under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for statements that could cause public unrest, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.
“PDRM warns that strict and uncompromising action will be taken against any party who deliberately makes or disseminates untrue statements and causes public fear and disrupts the harmony of society in Malaysia.”
Malaysians call out Manjoi ADUN for spreading misinformation about the incident
Among the viral social media posts which made the incorrect claim was a social media post by Manjoi State Assemblyman (ADUN) Mohd Hafez Sabri, which has since been deleted.
However, eagle-eyed Malaysians managed to capture screenshots of the post, including the numerous edits that the social media account had made to it.
Netizens then took to the Perikatan Nasional (PN) ADUN’s Facebook account to call him out for spreading misinformation and not conducting due diligence before posting.
Additionally, AMANAH Perak Youth Chief Khairol Najib Hashim criticised Hafez for the error in a statement, stressing that the Manjoi ADUN should’ve played a role in educating the people, not planting the seeds of hate in a multiracial society.
“This shows how easy it is for racial sentiments to be manipulated to invoke hatred, even on Merdeka Day, when the rakyat celebrates unity and independence,” said Khairol.
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