MCMC probes video of influencers giving KFC bones to homeless man

MCMC has launched an investigation into a viral video showing three influencers handing KFC chicken bones to a homeless man - an act it condemned as exploitative and deeply unethical.

“MCMC views seriously any attempt to create or spread content that exploits marginalised communities for cheap entertainment, online clout, or public provocation,” it said in a statement.

The commission warned that content which insults or degrades a person’s dignity not only violates basic ethics but also risks normalising inhumane behaviour in society.

It confirmed that the case is being probed under existing legal provisions, with firm action promised against those found guilty.

One of the influencers involved has since apologised, claiming the video was filmed with the man’s consent and was intended to promote “charity” work.

In a separate statement later, the MCMC said it had already questioned the trio today as part of investigations under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The questioning was carried out at the Iskandar Puteri police district headquarters in Johor. Three mobile phones and SIM cards were confiscated to facilitate investigations.

Controversial video

The controversial video showed three young men enjoying a meal at a KFC outlet before placing their chicken bones in a packet of rice. The trio then approached a man lying in an alley and gave him the food packet, which the man accepted with gratitude.

The influencers did not explain how their video was meant to be a form of charity, or how it could raise societal awareness.

Semambu assemblyperson Chan Chun Kuang yesterday called on MCMC to take action against the influencers, stressing that such content was not only insensitive but also demeaning to the dignity of another human being and exploitative.

The scorned video, which appears to be “rage baiting” netizens, had gone viral, with netizens expressing their dismay and anger over the cruel prank.

Rage bait refers to a type of online content, particularly social media posts, which are created specifically to provoke outrage or strong negative reactions from viewers.

Don’t spread provocative clips

MCMC reminded netizens not to upload or circulate provocative content that could lead to public distress and encourage unethical behaviour.

“The circulation and transmission of online content that is obscene, indecent, false, or offensive with the intent to threaten or harass can be investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act and can be punished with a fine of up to RM500,000, a maximum of two years in prison, or both.

“MCMC remains committed and firm in ensuring that our cyberspaces are not abused, while also upholding the sanctity of our laws and societal harmony,” it added.

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