MCMC reviews AI-manipulated footage of Dr M grieving

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently examining AI-altered footage of former PM Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad mourning the passing of his spouse, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, that has been shared across social media. In a recent announcement, the MCMC emphasized the seriousness of altering genuine footage, as it deceives the public, alters the context of an incident, and undermines the respect and integrity of individuals and their families.

The commission also stressed that such actions should not be taken lightly, particularly when concerning a person's period of sorrow and grief.

MCMC has reached out to the pertinent social media platforms and is currently assessing the material. Should the investigation uncover any violation of the law, appropriate measures can be taken in accordance with existing legal provisions, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), according to the statement. The MCMC has reminded all parties to refrain from generating, uploading, or distributing manipulated content that could mislead the public or harm others.

The commission has urged the public to confirm the genuineness of content prior to sharing and to report any suspected manipulated materials to social media platforms or the pertinent authorities. The MCMC highlighted that while AI technology provides diverse benefits to society, its application must be accompanied by responsibility. Technology should not be employed to distort the truth or exploit someone's grief at the expense of human dignity and values, the statement concluded.