MCMC has sought an official explanation from TikTok following media reports on the use of the platform to recruit individuals for drug-smuggling activities abroad.

In a statement, MCMC said the request concerned TikTok’s internal monitoring and enforcement mechanisms on content or advertisements suspected of being used for criminal purposes, including fake job offers that could deceive users.

The agency stated that any misuse of online platforms to recruit or deceive users into criminal activities through the dissemination of false content constitutes a serious offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

In addition, Section 263(1) of the same law stipulates that all licensees are responsible for taking reasonable steps to ensure that the network or service under their control is not used for purposes contrary to Malaysian law.

“The public is advised to be cautious of easy job offers on social media, especially those involving the delivery of items or luggage overseas.

“Such offers are often used by syndicates to deceive victims into becoming ‘drug mules’,” said MCMC.

Raising public awareness

The agency said it would continue close cooperation with enforcement agencies such as the Malaysian Border Control Agency (AKPS) and Customs Department to strengthen monitoring and raise public awareness of the risks of social media misuse for cross-border criminal activities.

Two days ago, AKPS director-general Shuhaily Zain revealed that the agency had foiled an attempt by four local individuals to smuggle 86kg of cannabis worth nearly RM8.3 million to Manchester, United Kingdom, through the Penang International Airport on Nov 3.

Malaysian Border Control Agency director-general Shuhaily Zain

He said preliminary investigations found that all the suspects - two couples in their 20s from Johor - admitted to receiving job offers through TikTok application to transport goods while travelling, with payments ranging from RM8,000 to RM11,000.

- Bernama

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