MCMC Investigates Viral Video Spreading Misleading Budget 2027 Tax Information

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 13  – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is reviewing a viral social media video alleged to contain false and confusing information concerning Sales and Service Tax (SST) rates and income tax relief provisions under Budget 2027.

In an official statement issued on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, MCMC confirmed receiving multiple public complaints regarding the circulating video.

The commission warned that disseminating inaccurate tax information creates unnecessary public panic, misrepresents national fiscal policy, and leads citizens to make flawed financial decisions based on false premises.

Inter-Ministry Referral, Legal Framework, and Official Verification Outlets

MCMC outlined its investigation steps and provided verified channels for public fiscal inquiries:

• Ministry of Finance Consultation: MCMC has formally referred the video to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to assess the context of its distribution, verify its contents, and evaluate its overall impact on public order.
• Potential Statutory Enforcement: The regulatory body stated that legal enforcement action will be considered if investigations reveal breaches of existing laws, including Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
• Responsibility in Free Speech: MCMC reiterated that while constitutional freedom of expression is respected, it must be exercised responsibly without spreading deceptive content that harms public interest.
• Official Verification Channels: Members of the public are strongly advised to verify all Budget 2027 information through official platforms, including the Ministry of Finance budget portal (www.belanjawan.mof.gov.my), the Sebenarnya.my portal, the AIFA WhatsApp chatbot at 03-8688 7997, or official government communication handles before sharing content online.

MCMC continues to monitor online platforms to curb fake news surrounding national economic measures.

–NMT