MCMC probes claims Claude AI targeted Malaysian voters, but says issue outside its mandate

MCMC said it was seeking further information from relevant parties to establish the facts behind the alleged election manipulation campaign. — Picture by Choo Choy May .

First Published: Saturday, 12 Sep 2026 9:10 AM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 11 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is examining claims that Anthropic’s Claude artificial intelligence platform was used to operate a commercial election manipulation campaign targeting users in Malaysia.

MCMC said it took the US AI company’s latest report seriously but stressed that the activities described fell outside its functions and mandate.

“MCMC was not involved in any activities or dealings as described in the report,” it said in a statement today.

Anthropic reportedly said it had identified and removed an account linked to a network of about 1,000 fake accounts on X, a fake news website and several fabricated dossiers or intelligence files.

MCMC said it was seeking further information and clarification from the relevant parties to establish the facts and understand the context of the claims.

“Based on the information and evidence obtained, MCMC will determine the appropriate follow-up action within its jurisdiction, including working with the relevant authorities,” it said.

The commission added that protecting the public from online harm and maintaining a safe and trusted online environment remained central to its responsibilities. — Bernama