Police have confirmed receiving a report regarding a Facebook post that allegedly contains defamatory accusations directed at an individual associated with the Perlis Royal Institution. The post, which recently circulated online, prompted concern that it could damage the reputation of the institution and mislead the public.
Arau district police chief Superintendent Ahmad Mohsin Md Rodi said the report was filed by a 39-year-old contractor yesterday after he came across the post while dining in Arau on December 31.
“During questioning, the complainant stated that he had never seen such a post before, but he had heard rumours previously. However, he ignored them until he personally read the Facebook post,” Ahmad Mohsin said.
The post reportedly claimed that the individual mentioned was responsible for the downfall of former Perlis menteri besar YB Mohd Shukri Ramli. The alleged motivation involved disagreements over the value tied to a Perlis state piping project that was said to have been requested by a certain party.
Believing that the post insinuated wrongdoing involving the Perlis Royal Institution, the complainant urged police to investigate the matter and take stern action against the account holder for allegedly attempting to damage the institution’s image.
Police checks via the Integrated Police Reporting System (iPRS) revealed that two police reports had been filed concerning the issue, including one in Kangar, which has since been treated as a supporting report to the primary case lodged in Arau.
Authorities are currently tracing the Facebook account owner to assist investigations. The case is being investigated under Section 500 of the Penal Code for defamation, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for misuse of network facilities and services, and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955.
Police also issued a reminder to the public to be responsible when posting or sharing content on social media, especially when it involves sensitive institutions or individuals. Unverified statements, they warned, can lead to public misunderstanding and legal action against those involved.
Investigations continue as police gather evidence and statements to determine the next course of action under relevant laws.