It said “Chase Me” by US author Tessa Bailey and “Ammar Zahrain: The Obsessive Husband” by local author Nssignature were officially banned through federal gazettes on July 1 and July 3, respectively.

The ministry said the prohibition order was issued under the Printing Presses and Publications Act (PPPA) 1984 as a preventative measure against potential threats or harm.

“The government affirms its continued commitment to implementing regulatory and enforcement actions on printing presses and publications, particularly to prevent the dissemination of elements, ideologies or movements that may jeopardise national security and public order,” it said in a statement today.

Those found in possession of the banned publications without reasonable cause can be fined up to RM5,000 under Section 8(1) of the PPPA.

Harsher penalties await those involved in their printing, distribution, or sale – up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of RM20,000, or both.

Details of the banned titles are available on the home ministry’s website and the Federal Legislation portal.