Malaysia: Implemented Anti-Fake News Act 2018 (Act 803)

On 11 April 2018, the Anti-Fake News Act 2018 (Act 803) entered into force. The Act aims to address the dissemination of false information across various media platforms. The Act defines fake news as any news, information, data or reports, which are partially or wholly false. Under the Act, individuals who with malintent create, offer, publish, print, distribute, circulate or disseminate fake news are subject to a fine of up to MYR 500’000 and/or imprisonment of up to six years. Further, the Act prohibits any financial assistance to the creation, publication or dissemination of fake news. The Act also grants individuals the power to apply for a court order removing fake news which affects this person.