CYBERJAYA, April 15, 2026 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has recorded a statement from a suspect accused of spreading false information regarding the alleged supply of approximately 329,000 barrels of diesel to the Philippines.
In an official media statement issued today, MCMC confirmed that the diesel in question belongs to the international trading company Vitol and is not owned by Petronas or the Malaysian Government. A communication device believed to have been used to upload the misleading content was seized to aid the ongoing investigation.
As of April 14 (Tuesday), MCMC has opened 47 investigation papers related to the spread of fake news concerning the global energy crisis on social media and digital platforms. These cases stem from the conflict in West Asia (Middle East).
Among the viral false claims are allegations that fuel prices would rise far beyond official announcements, electricity tariffs would increase, Malaysian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz are paying tolls to Iran, Budi95 subsidies are being given to Singaporean citizens, and that the 329,000 barrels of diesel sent to the Philippines belong to Malaysia.
Investigations are being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), which carries a maximum fine of RM500,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both upon conviction.
MCMC views any misuse of digital platforms to mislead the public through fake information very seriously and will take firm action against any parties found to be in violation of the law.
Minister Supports Strict Action Against Fake News Peddlers
In response to the latest development, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming (@NgaKorMing) took to X (formerly Twitter) this morning to condemn those spreading such falsehoods.
He posted:
“Manusia yg jahat. Ketika dunia dilanda krisis besar. Krjn Madani bertungkus lumus bekerja utk mengharungi cabaran.
Ada pula segelintir puak jahat yg tergamak sebar berita palsu & berdosa fitnah. Nawaitunya : sgt jahat. Sokong usaha tindakan tegas ke atas puak fitnah ini.”
(Translation: “Evil people. While the world is hit by a major crisis. The Madani Government is working tirelessly to navigate the challenges. Yet a handful of evil groups dare to spread fake news and commit the sin of slander. Their intention: extremely evil. I support firm action against these slanderers.”)
Nga Kor Ming’s post included the official MCMC photo showing the suspect (face blurred) being questioned by enforcement officers.
The case highlights growing concerns over misinformation amid global energy uncertainties, with MCMC reiterating its commitment to curbing the spread of fake news that could cause public confusion.
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