The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission said Nur Irsalina Omar Kumar was charged with uploading a post, edited to resemble official Buletin TV3 content, through her Threads account, “its.ellsaleena_”, on March 31.

“The post contained false information about an increase in fuel prices. The act misled the public and sparked concern over the cost of living,” it said in a statement.

MCMC said the court ordered Irsalina to serve six months in jail if she failed to pay the fine. She settled the amount.

The prosecution was carried out under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), which provides for a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to two years, or both, upon conviction.

MCMC said the spread of false information, particularly on matters of public interest, can have negative implications for societal stability and wellbeing.

It advised the public to always verify the authenticity of information before sharing it, and to use online platforms responsibly.