No. Using fake names on social media in Malaysia is generally prohibited under multiple laws, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) guidelines. The 2026 amendments to the Anti-Fake News Act further criminalize deceptive online identities, imposing fines up to RM100,000 or imprisonment. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter enforce real-name policies, aligning with MCMC’s 2023 Content Code to curb misinformation and fraud.
Key Regulations for Using Fake Names on Social Media in Malaysia
- Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Section 211): Prohibits the use of false or misleading information in online communications, with penalties including fines up to RM50,000 or two years’ imprisonment.
- Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Content Code (2023): Mandates social media platforms to verify user identities, restricting anonymous accounts unless explicitly permitted (e.g., for whistleblowers under Whistleblower Protection Act 2010).
- Anti-Fake News Act 2018 (Amended 2026): Criminalizes the creation or dissemination of fake identities to spread false news, with enhanced penalties of RM100,000 or five years’ imprisonment for repeat offenders.
Enforcement falls under MCMC’s 2024 Digital Enforcement Framework, which empowers authorities to investigate and block accounts violating these rules. Exceptions exist for satire or artistic expression, but these require explicit disclaimers to avoid legal ambiguity.