KUCHING, Mar 19: Chief of Defence Force Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang crushed rumors claiming military helicopters were spraying pesticides in efforts to kill coronavirus all over the country.
Affendi in a statement said that the rumors that went viral among social messaging apps users in the country was just fake news.
“Although the fake news did not specify clearly which service department’s helicopters, be it the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) or RMAF, but the usage of the word ‘military’ and the spread of this false information can cause panic among the people, especially when the country is still dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak,” he said.
Affendi also urged all parties to stop the spread of such false information immediately.
He said any individuals found guilty for spreading fake news will be charged under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
“The public is advised to not easily be influenced by any news that can cause worries. Get your verified information regarding the Covid-19 from the national Crisis Preparedness and Response (CPRC) Hotline and the Health Ministry.
“Any latest information would also be channel gradually through the National Security Council (MSN) Telegram apps at https://t.me/MKNRasmi.”
Earlier on, a message had been circulated on social media claimng that a special operation involving the military will be conducted throughout the nation after midnight. —DayakDaily
