PUTRAJAYA | August 6, 2025
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has recorded statements from three individuals linked to a viral video showing a homeless man being handed a packet of rice containing chicken bones — a clip that has triggered public outrage and NGO backlash.
According to MCMC, the individuals were questioned at the Iskandar Puteri District Police Headquarters in Johor yesterday. Investigators also seized three mobile phones and SIM cards to assist with the probe.
The video, widely circulated on TikTok, showed three young men placing leftover chicken bones in a food packet and handing it to a man sleeping on a sidewalk. The content was deemed “extremely obscene” by MCMC and is being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
If convicted, the suspects may face up to two years in prison, a maximum fine of RM500,000, or both.
Social Media Backlash and NGO Condemnation
The video drew sharp criticism from NGOs and the public, with many accusing the creators of exploiting the homeless for online engagement.
Tony Lian, founder of Food4U, described the act as “dehumanising” and “an insult to genuine charitable work.”
“It is not fun to be poor, run down, and degraded. This act misrepresents what charity is supposed to be,” he said.
Brian Lariche, CEO of the Make It Right Movement, said poverty should not be turned into social media content.
“Even if there’s context, the damage is already done once it’s online,” he told reporters.
Uplift’s head of operations, N Kumar, urged content creators to treat charity efforts with sincerity and transparency.
Apology Issued, But Outrage Continues
One of the individuals involved later issued a public apology, claiming that the homeless man agreed to the stunt and was later provided a proper meal with two pieces of fried chicken. The original video has since been deleted.
Despite the apology, criticism continues, with Semambu assemblyman Chan Chun Kuang also calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
MCMC has reaffirmed that it views the exploitation of marginalized communities for entertainment as a serious offense and will pursue the case according to the law.
