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Media and Entertainment
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Media and Entertainment
Source : (remove) : Free Malaysia Today
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MCMC Investigates Influencers’ Cruel Prank Targeting Homeless Man

MCMC Investigates Viral Video of Influencers Offering Food Waste to Homeless Man

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched an investigation into a disturbing video circulating on social media platforms, depicting a group of influencers apparently pranking a homeless individual by presenting him with what appears to be food waste disguised as a charitable act. The clip, which has garnered widespread condemnation online, highlights growing concerns over the ethical boundaries of content creation in the digital age, particularly when it involves vulnerable members of society.

The incident, captured in a short video that first surfaced on TikTok before spreading to Instagram and other platforms, shows three young influencers—identified by netizens as popular lifestyle vloggers with a combined following of over 500,000—approaching a homeless man sleeping on the streets of downtown Kuala Lumpur. In the footage, the group enthusiastically offers the man a plastic bag purportedly containing a meal, complete with exaggerated expressions of kindness and motivational speeches about "giving back to the community." However, upon closer inspection in the video, the contents reveal spoiled rice, rotten vegetables, and other discarded items, which the man discovers only after the influencers burst into laughter and reveal the prank. The homeless individual, visibly confused and distressed, is left to deal with the aftermath as the camera pans away amid the group's giggles.

Public outrage erupted almost immediately after the video was posted late last week, with users across social media platforms labeling the act as cruel, inhumane, and a blatant exploitation of poverty for views and likes. Hashtags such as #StopPrankHomeless and #InfluencerAccountability trended on Twitter (now X) in Malaysia, amassing thousands of shares and comments. One user wrote, "This isn't content; it's cruelty. How low will people go for viral fame?" Another commented, "These influencers are profiting off someone's suffering. MCMC needs to step in." The backlash has not only targeted the individuals involved but has also sparked broader discussions on the responsibilities of social media personalities and the platforms that host such content.

In response to the public outcry, MCMC confirmed on Monday that it is actively probing the matter under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which regulates online content and prohibits material that could incite hatred, cause distress, or promote harmful behavior. A spokesperson for the commission stated, "We are aware of the video in question and have initiated an investigation to determine if it violates any provisions related to cyberbullying, harassment, or the dissemination of offensive content. Our team is working with relevant platforms to trace the origins and assess the intent behind the upload." The probe could lead to penalties including fines, content takedowns, or even referral to law enforcement if criminal elements are found, such as elements of public nuisance or intentional infliction of emotional distress.

This is not the first time MCMC has intervened in cases involving social media influencers pushing ethical limits. In recent years, the commission has cracked down on various online pranks and challenges that endanger public safety or exploit marginalized groups. For instance, in 2023, a similar investigation was launched against a group of YouTubers who staged fake accidents involving elderly pedestrians, resulting in the suspension of their channels and community service orders. Experts argue that such incidents underscore a troubling trend where the pursuit of virality overshadows basic human decency. Dr. Aishah Rahman, a media ethics professor at Universiti Malaya, explained in an interview, "Influencers often operate in a gray area where shock value drives engagement. But when it involves real people, especially the homeless who lack the means to defend themselves, it crosses into exploitation. We need stricter guidelines to prevent this from becoming normalized."

The influencers in question, whose identities have been partially withheld pending the investigation but are known in online circles as part of the "KL Vibes Crew," have yet to issue a public apology. One of them, a 25-year-old fashion blogger named Mia, posted a cryptic Instagram story saying, "It was just for fun, didn't mean to hurt anyone," before deleting it amid mounting criticism. Their management team released a brief statement claiming the video was "misunderstood" and intended as a "social experiment" to raise awareness about food waste, but this defense has been met with skepticism. Critics point out that the video's editing, complete with upbeat music and laugh tracks, clearly frames it as entertainment rather than advocacy.

Beyond the immediate controversy, the case sheds light on deeper societal issues in Malaysia, where homelessness remains a persistent problem exacerbated by urban poverty, mental health challenges, and economic disparities. According to data from the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, there are an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 homeless individuals in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, many of whom face daily struggles for basic necessities. Activists argue that pranks like this not only humiliate but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes, deterring genuine acts of charity. "When influencers treat homelessness as a punchline, it desensitizes the public," said Rahman Ali, founder of the NGO Street Aid Malaysia. "We've seen a dip in donations after such videos go viral because people question the authenticity of helping."

The MCMC investigation is expected to involve interviews with the influencers, the homeless man (if he can be located), and witnesses, as well as a review of the video's metadata to confirm its authenticity and distribution. Legal experts suggest that if the content is deemed to violate Section 211 of the Communications and Multimedia Act, which addresses content that is "indecent, obscene, false, menacing or offensive," the perpetrators could face fines up to RM50,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. Additionally, platforms like TikTok and Instagram may be required to enhance their moderation policies for Malaysian users, potentially including AI-driven filters to detect exploitative content before it spreads.

This scandal also prompts a reevaluation of influencer culture in Malaysia, where the digital economy is booming. With over 80% of Malaysians active on social media, influencers wield significant power in shaping trends and opinions. However, as their audiences grow, so does the scrutiny. Industry insiders call for self-regulation, such as voluntary codes of conduct or collaborations with NGOs to promote positive content. "It's time for influencers to prioritize empathy over engagement," noted digital marketing consultant Lena Tan. "True influence comes from uplifting, not tearing down."

As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits accountability. The homeless man at the center of the video has not been publicly identified, but outreach groups are attempting to locate him to offer support. In a country striving for social harmony, this incident serves as a stark reminder that behind every viral clip is a human story, and the line between entertainment and exploitation must be drawn firmly. MCMC's actions could set a precedent for how Malaysia handles the darker side of social media, ensuring that the digital space remains a force for good rather than harm.

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Read the Full Free Malaysia Today Article at:
[ https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/08/05/mcmc-probing-clip-of-influencers-giving-homeless-man-food-waste ]