Kuching: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has successfully taken down a total of 49,082 scam-related posts this year, as of August 1, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, last year saw 63,652 posts removed, indicating a significant rise in the proliferation of online scam content, compared to just 6,297 in 2023. Minister Teo highlighted this increase during her speech at the Excellent Service Award (APC) 2024 Ceremony of the Communications Ministry, held at RTM Sarawak.
Teo emphasized the need for all stakeholders to keep up with the fast-evolving technological landscape, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI offers the potential to simplify various tasks, she noted it cannot replace core values such as effort, dedication, and excellence, essential to public service.
She stressed the importance of a wise, prudent, and controlled approach in utilizing technology to ensure it benefits society without compromising integrity and responsibility. An ethical and balanced adoption of AI, she argued, will optimize its use in enhancing service quality to the public.
To combat scams and fake news, Teo mentioned that the ministry has introduced several fact-checking tools, including Biar Betul on RTM, the AI chatbot AIFA (Artificial Intelligence Fact-check Assistant), and the portal Sebenarnya.my. AIFA has handled 142,257 messages as of July 31, 2025, since its launch on January 28, 2025, averaging nearly 769 messages daily.
Teo underscored that these initiatives aim to provide the public with quick access to authentic information, educate users on identifying reliable sources, and raise awareness about online safety.
Additionally, the government is committed to ongoing administrative reforms, particularly in public service. Malaysia's improvement in the World Competitiveness Ranking (WCR) 2025, moving up 11 places to 23rd, demonstrates the government's commitment to structural reforms and comprehensive improvements.
These efforts not only enhance administrative efficiency but also bolster international confidence in Malaysia's governance capabilities.
Earlier in the ceremony, Teo presented APC awards to 80 recipients from various departments and agencies under the Communications Ministry. She also extended Tabung Kasih@HAWANA contributions to the families of two recently deceased Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) staff in Sarawak. Irwan Budi Annuar, 51, succumbed to lung cancer and kidney disease on August 6, and Georgina Clare, 45, passed away on August 12.