NIBONG TEBAL: Supporters of all parties contesting in the Sungai Bakap by-election have been told to behave in a civil manner throughout the campaigning period, especially on social media.
Unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil said they were concerned about those who used fake accounts to stir things up or spread misinformation.
"As such, we are reminding all supporters to be on their best behaviour, especially in the internet, including not issuing unkind comments or those touching on 3R (race, religion, royalty).
"The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will not hesitate to act against those who post inappropriate comments," he said after the nomination day process for the Sungai Bakap by-election.
Elaborating, Fahmi said many thought believed commenting on FB Live or TikTok Live will not result in consequences.
"Monitoring will be carried out.
"(For) those who issue any statements touching on 3R or against the law, including in live sessions, the MCMC will take necessary action," he said.
The by-election for the Sungai Bakap state seat in Penang will see a straight fight between Pakatan Harapan's Dr Joohari Ariffin and Perikatan Nasional's Abidin Ismail.
Announcing this at the close of nomination today, returning officer Khairulnizam Hashim confirmed Joohari submitted his nomination paper at 9.03am and Abidin at 9.06am.
Meanwhile, asked to comment on Manjoi assemblyman Mohd Hafez Sabri's claims that the ruling coalition was deploying government resources to gain votes from Sungai Bakap voters, Fahmj dismissed it as a wild accusation.
"Campaigning period has just begun. And the instruction from the prime minister to all Cabinet ministers before this on the use of government resources is very clear.
"This is why I am here today without donning the party logo shirt. I am here for work while at the same time lending my support to the unity government candidate.
"I continue to carry out my job without misusing government resources for political reasons," he added.