MCMC Reviews AI-Manipulated Content Exploiting Tun Dr Mahathir’s Moment of Grief

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is reviewing social media content that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate footage of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad grieving the loss of his wife, the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.

MCMC said it has contacted the relevant social media platform over the content.

“If the review finds that there has been a breach of the law, appropriate action may be taken under existing legal provisions, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588),” it said in a statement.

According to MCMC, the use of technology to manipulate authentic footage in ways that could mislead the public, distort the context of an event or undermine the dignity of individuals and their families should not be taken lightly, particularly when it involves moments of loss and grief.

MCMC also reminded all parties not to create, upload or disseminate manipulated content that could mislead the public or cause harm to others.

The public is also encouraged to verify the authenticity of content before sharing it and to report suspected manipulated content to the relevant platforms or authorities.

MCMC said advances in AI offer many benefits to society, but their use must be accompanied by responsibility.

“Technology should not be used to distort the truth or exploit a person’s grief at the expense of dignity and human values,” it said.

MCMC issued the statement following the circulation of social media content that manipulated footage of Dr Mahathir during a period of mourning following the death of his wife.

Dr Siti Hasmah died on Sept 28 at the age of 100.

The misuse of AI and deepfake technology has previously drawn the attention of authorities. In March, the government reportedly acknowledged that such technology was increasingly being used to produce false and manipulated content, including material featuring the images and voices of public figures.

The government said at the time that MCMC takes action against online content involving public interest, crime, abuse, threats and provocation, while also working with social media platforms and enforcement agencies.

BERNAMA