SIBU: An insurance agent has become the victim of identity theft after his photo was used to create a fake social media account spreading defamatory and humiliating content.
Yong Kah Kiong, 29, expressed his shock upon discovering the existence of the fraudulent account, which he feared could harm both his personal reputation and professional career.
“I am deeply concerned about the impact of this content — not only on myself but also on my family and acquaintances,” he said at a press conference held at the Pelawan Service Centre yesterday (Mar 16).
Following the incident, Yong filed two police reports on Mar 11 and 14 and lodged a complaint with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Seeking further action, he approached the Pelawan Service Centre for assistance in urging authorities to take swift measures against the perpetrator.
Meanwhile, Kapitan Ling Hua Wei, representing Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang, said that a letter had been sent to the police regarding the case.
He emphasised that social media should not become a “lawless zone” where cyberbullying thrives, violating personal rights and eroding public trust.
“This is not an isolated case — it reflects a dangerous trend of digital platform abuse, where bad actors create fake accounts, steal personal images, and spread misleading or harmful information,” he said.
Ling urged the public to be more responsible online by verifying information before sharing, to prevent further cyber harm.
He also encouraged other victims of identity theft to come forward and seek assistance from authorities or relevant organisations.
“We must not let these perpetrators go unpunished. It is crucial that we stand together to uphold justice and prevent such incidents from happening again,” he stressed.
