Judge Ahmad Fuad Othman also ordered Branley Mohd Taha, 24, to serve six months in jail if he failed to pay the fine.

According to the charge, Branley knowingly provided access to obscene content via a Telegram group called “Baby Channel Lifetime” to an undercover officer from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) at 8.44pm on July 22, 2024.

He was charged under Section 233(2)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a maximum penalty of RM50,000, a year’s jail, or both upon conviction.

Ahmad said the offence had a significant impact on public morality and went against Islamic religious values as well as the principles of the Rukun Negara.

He added that Malaysia was well-known for its values of decency and propriety, and that no religion in the country permitted obscene acts.

“You (Branley) have violated two principles of the Rukun Negara, which are the core foundation of our country. Do not use social media to damage public morality and the nation’s harmony,” he said.

MCMC prosecuting officer Azmir Razal led the prosecution while Branley was unrepresented.

In mitigation, Branley pleaded for a lighter sentence, saying he had no stable job and helped his mother sell kuih while supporting his family.

He said he is the main provider for his mother, younger sibling, and niece, and expressed remorse for his actions.

However, the prosecution sought a heavier sentence, stressing the seriousness of the offence and its impact on society.