J-Kom denies responsibility for viral message on social media warfare

SHAH ALAM - The Community Communications Department (J-Kom) has denied responsibility for a viral WhatsApp message on a supposed social media warfare during the state polls.

The message, which was purportedly issued by J-Kom, recommended action and made suggestions on handling the warfare, besides highlighting the government's weakness in increasing engagement with pro-government media.

The message also specifically asked to unfollow all pro-opposition media on social media platforms.

"Don't ever contribute to or increase engagement for the opponents. If the news is from the opposing media, hide or mute the stories from your timeline," it said.

The message also said many people blame the ministry and department for not disseminating information.

"Even if there are many postings from the government side, it will not be good enough because of the lack of engagement.

"Engagements will help a post reach more people due to the social media algorithm itself," said the message, which linked to J-Kom's official Facebook page.

The message also called on the people to join team #mediamadani as well as like, share, and comment on every media madani post.

J-Kom director-general Datuk Dr Mohammad Agus Yusoff, in a statement, refuted issuing the message, stating that it is not responsible for the message and the perception caused by it.

"The message doesn't describe J-Kom's stand.

"The department is not responsible for the perception caused by the message.

"It is also hoped that J-Kom will not be implicated and made responsible for in this message," it added.