MCMC probes Facebook post suspected of insulting Islam by mocking Quranic verse

MCMC said it had recorded a statement from the individual to assist in the investigation and seized a mobile phone and an eSIM for forensic examination. — Picture by Choo Choy May

First Published: Sunday, 11 Oct 2026 9:32 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched an investigation into an individual over Facebook content suspected of insulting Islam.

MCMC said the content concerned the use of the word “lighad”, which refers to verse 18 of Surah al-Hashr, in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2027 speech on Friday.

“The content allegedly mocked a Quranic verse, causing concern among the public,” it said in a statement yesterday.

MCMC said it had recorded a statement from the individual to assist in the investigation and seized a mobile phone and an eSIM for forensic examination.

The commission said the case was being investigated under Section 233 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 stressed that freedom of expression on social media must be exercised responsibly, with respect for religious sensitivities and the need to preserve harmony in a multiracial and multireligious society. — Bernama