Post claiming Sanusi welcomed by a large crowd in Johor is fake, say cops

JOHOR BARU: The police are currently investigating a social media post that falsely claims that the Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s visit to Johor was met with a large crowd. Johor police chief Datuk Comm Kamarul Zaman Mamat stated that the information in the post, which has been circulating on TikTok, is untrue as the event actually took place in Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur last month.

In his statement, Comm Kamarul explained, “The event was actually a programme attended by celebrity preachers Ustaz Abdul Somad and Sheikh Aleey Qodir At-Thohiri in the capital city on July 15.” The video attached to the post includes the words “the reception of Kedah MB in Johor (sambutan kepada MB Kedah di Johor)” and features the prominently recognized chant of Luaskan Kuasamu Johor, which is closely associated with the Johor Darul Ta’zim football club.

The video was posted on the platform on Saturday (Aug 26), and an investigation paper has been opened to address the issue. The police are seeking the individuals responsible for the post to assist in the investigation as it is considered provocative and has the potential to incite hostility among the people.

In his statement, Comm Kamarul emphasized that spreading false information is against the law and can be punished under Section 505(b) of the Penal code, which carries a fine or imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

He further noted that action can also be taken under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which may result in a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both upon conviction.

In conclusion, Comm Kamarul urged the public to be cautious and refrain from trusting unverified sources. He requested that people avoid sharing the post as it could harm the peace and harmony of society.