He said the government must act on this to avoid adverse impact on the country’s democratic system and economy, which would ultimately victimise the people.
“It appears the spread of fake news is being used as political fodder by some quarters to grab power by unethical means. They are trying to influence the people with fake news.
“Fake news is also being spread to frighten foreign investors, claiming that Malaysia is on the verge of bankruptcy and the like. Such actions will kill democracy,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after a thanksgiving and aid distribution function for needy residents from around the Ketereh parliamentary constituency at his residence here today.
Annuar, who is also MP for Ketereh, said the government should follow in the footsteps of several countries which are making efforts to curb the spread of fake news.
He said Barisan Nasional had introduced standard operating procedures by setting a maximum of four hours to counter any fake news, especially lies spread by the opposition.
“I expect with the 14th general election to be called at any time, there will be a proliferation of fake news. We have to be on guard and counter these swiftly,” he said.
He also said that 300 BN information officers will convene at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur, tomorrow for a two-day conference to be updated on issues like Felda, 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), the economy and security.
Fight against fake news pretext to censorship, says media group