SHAH ALAM – The Malaysian government will not hesitate to take strict action against those who abuse fake and unrecognised titles and awards in organising activities and events, says Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Parliament and Law).
English news portal The Star reported that such offences could be charged under the Offences Relating to Awards Act (Act 787) which can amount to a fine of up to RM500,00 and a maximum jail of up to 20 years, as mentioned by Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
"Some of these people believe that by using the titles, they will be able to convince and fool the public that they have a certain status and credibility among the community.
"What is more worrying is that these people misuse these titles for cases involving fraud and other crimes.
"There are still those who openly organise certain events, where they attend wearing the 'Number 1 Dress' or 'Mess Kit' complete with medals, sashes and unrecognised and fake titles.
"I would like to warn all parties who are still abusing fake titles and carrying out the activities I mentioned that the government and enforcement will not hesitate to take action according to the existing laws, especially Act 787," Wan Junaidi had reportedly said in a pre-recorded speech by Wan Junaidi.
The speech was read aloud by Prime Minister's Department Legal Affairs Division director-general Datuk Abd Shukor Mahmood following the launch of the Council of Dato and Datuk Malaysia (MDDM) yesterday.
Among those present was the President of MDDM Datuk Awalan Abdul Aziz, secretary-general Datuk Samson Maman and other exco members.
The report further stated that Wan Junaidi noted that the public and media members had highlighted their concerns on the issue of unrecognised and fake Datuks, including matters of fake Tan Sri titles.
"I hope that the enforcement authorities, especially the police, will be stricter and more comprehensive in ensuring that Act 787 is fully enforced nationwide.
"I also hope that the media and public also play a role in exposing cases of abuse as mentioned earlier,” he had said.
He added that an important measure to preserve the unique status and significance of the awards, titles and honours conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Sultans and state governors should be done through rigorous enforcement.
"This is actually the essence and main objective of Act 787," he said.
During the event, Wan Junaidi also congratulated all MDDM members for taking the initiative to establish and register the council, and made sure strict screening processes were conducted to filter the legitimacy of its recipients.
"The establishment of MDDM is very well in line with the government's active effort in enforcing Act 787 to curb the abuse of unrecognised and fake titles and awards.
"I hope MDDM will be the main organisation and platform to register all recognised Datuks in the country,'' he said.