A Malaysian court fined 23-year-old social media influencer Tang Sie Luk, ruling that his intentionally produced content violated public sentiment laws under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Judge Zaleena Safi stated that Tang would face four months in prison if he did not pay the fine. However, Tang paid the full amount immediately following the verdict. He also expressed regret and issued a public apology for his actions.
The verdict comes after Tang Sie Luk faced massive criticism for a Douyin video posted on August 3, 2025. The video quickly went viral, sparking outrage across Malaysia and internationally.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
In the controversial video, three boys can be heard saying that throwing away chicken bones would waste them. After finishing their meal, they placed the chicken bones into rice, packed it, and gave it to a homeless person to eat. The act triggered strong condemnation from social media users, advocacy groups, and local authorities.
The video not only raised ethical concerns but also highlighted the influencer’s intent to provoke public sentiment. Observers noted that content like this can harm the dignity of vulnerable communities and spread negativity.
Tang’s actions drew sharp criticism from netizens who called for accountability and stricter regulations for social media behavior. Many commented that such incidents show the potential dangers of viral content when influencers seek attention without considering the consequences.
Regret and Apology Follow Court Decision
After the court hearing, Tang Sie Luk publicly expressed remorse. He apologized for the video and admitted that his actions were wrong. Legal experts noted that the fine and potential jail term serve as a warning to influencers and content creators about the limits of online freedom in Malaysia.
Additionally, the case sparked wider debates on social media ethics and the responsibility of content creators to respect human dignity. Authorities emphasized the importance of responsible online conduct, particularly when posting content involving vulnerable individuals such as the homeless.
Experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for stricter enforcement of Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Act. It also underscores the importance of educating influencers and young content creators about ethics and social responsibility.
The incident has become a cautionary tale for social media users worldwide, reminding creators that viral content can have serious legal and social consequences.
