Personal Photos Misinterpreted, Slanderous Comments, and Harassment Begin to Flood the Comment Sections Following Viral Birthday Wish.
KUALA LUMPUR, El Sky News – The Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the trend of ‘Social Crime’ and cyber threats sparked on social media, following the resurfacing of speculation regarding the close relationship between well-known celebrity, Dayang Nabellah Awang Astillah (Bella Astillah), and the Member of Parliament for Muar, Tuan Syed Saddiq bin Syed Abdul Rahman Alsagoff.
The issue returned to the headlines after Bella posted several throwback photos of them on Instagram to mark Syed Saddiq’s birthday. Although the intention of the greeting was clear, it has triggered extreme reactions among netizens, some of which are described as having crossed the boundaries of internet ethics.
Threats and Excessive Comments Become Focus
A close source within the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirmed that monitoring activities have been intensified following public complaints and reports from concerned parties regarding a sharp increase in slanderous, threatening, and personal harassment comments directed at the two public figures.
“We found that some parties are using this platform to spread false narratives and launch personal attacks that can be classified as cyberbullying and criminal defamation under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA),” the source, who wished to remain anonymous, told local media.
Despite Bella’s innocent greeting, which received a positive response from Syed Saddiq himself, some social media users are alleged to have manipulated the statements and photos for the purpose of creating conflict and damaging reputations.
Cybercrime Warning: Strict Action Awaits
Authorities are taking this matter seriously, especially when it involves the misuse of digital platforms to spread hatred and false information.
In related developments, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has previously and repeatedly reminded the public that social media is not a free arena to violate the law.
“We want to issue a strong warning. Every individual is fully responsible for the content uploaded or commented on. Never assume that identity in the virtual world is immune. Investigations will be carried out and strict legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty of spreading false news, defamation, or threats on social media,” stressed a recent official statement from the PDRM.
Bella Astillah and Syed Saddiq are reported to be carrying on with their daily routines as usual and have fully entrusted the authorities to handle any form of excessive cyber harassment.
(Leakim Otid)
