SENIOR Minister (Security Cluster) Ismail Sabri Yaakob today refuted a claim that almost 90% of those who tested positive for Covid-19 were individuals who visited shopping malls around the Klang Valley.

As such, he advised the public not to share unverified information and to always check the authenticity of any news they receive.

“Action can be taken against those who spread fake news,” he told a virtual press conference via the Defence Ministry’s Facebook page today.

Ismail Sabri also urged the public to refer to the Communications and Multimedia Ministry’a Quick Response Team by contacting 03-89115103 or visit www.sebenarnya.my to check the authenticity of any news received.

The false news claiming that 90% of Covid-19 positive cases comprised those who had visited shopping malls around the Klang Valley went viral.

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said so far 273 investigation papers on Covid-19 fake news have been opened by police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

He said of the total, 136 cases were still under investigation, 35 cases had been charged in court with 21 individuals found guilty, 13 still on trial and 12 others were given warning notices.

“A total of 390 denials and explanations on fake news have also been issued by the response team, which was established to curb the spread of fake news related to Covid-19,” he said. – Bernama, October 21, 2020.