Citing the newly gazetted ordinance, he said it clearly stated that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong was satisfied on the need for immediate action through the ordinance to preserve the nation’s “security, economic life and public order”.

He also said the ordinance would be applicable to all individuals regardless of citizenship, even if they were living outside of Malaysia.

“The offence committed must involve Malaysia or the person affected by the fake news must be Malaysian. So if a Malaysian spreads it (fake news) to a foreigner, then it’s not applicable under the ordinance.”

It was reported yesterday that those who create, publish or distribute fake news would now face a fine of up to RM100,000, a jail term of up to three years or both under a new emergency ordinance.

Those who pay for the creation of such fake news will face harsher punishment, with fines of up to RM500,000 or a jail term of six years, or both.

The Emergency (Essential Powers) (No. 2) Ordinance 2021 defines “fake news” as news or information that “is or are wholly or partly false relating to Covid-19 or the proclamation of emergency”.

This has drawn criticism from politicians, media groups and lawyers, who expressed concern that it would stifle people’s rights and freedoms.

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