KUALA LUMPUR – AI-generated videos falsely depicting the Sultan of Pahang have surfaced on TikTok, prompting investigations by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
According to the Pahang Palace, the state ruler does not own any social media accounts.
Pahang police chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said the Pahang Palace lodged a police report at the Kuantan police headquarters on Sunday after the videos went viral on the video-sharing social media platform.
“Police received a report regarding a TikTok video showing an image resembling the Sultan of Pahang. Investigations found that the TikTok accounts involved were fake. The case has since been referred to the MCMC for further action,” he reportedly said after the monthly assembly at the Pekan district police headquarters today.
Yahaya said the MCMC is investigating the case under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which prohibits the misuse of network facilities or services. Offenders may face a fine of up to RM50,000, one year’s imprisonment, or both, upon conviction.
The Pahang Palace confirmed that several TikTok accounts had circulated AI-generated videos misusing the Sultan’s image to mislead the public.
Yahaya also advised the public to verify content thoroughly, especially when it concerns the royal institution. – July 8, 2025