The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched a new AI fact-checking chatbot called AIFA (Artificial Intelligence Fact-check Assistant), officiated by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. The service is designed to combat the spread of fake news and provide users with a platform to verify unverified information online. It is accessible through the Sebenarnya.my portal and via WhatsApp at 03-86887997.
AIFA is intended to enhance the Sebenarnya.my portal by enabling swift and easy access to accurate information. As pointed out by comms minister Fahmi Fadzil, the chatbot operates with three key objectives: to assist the public in verifying news authenticity, to provide timely responses to misinformation online, and to strengthen the role of the portal in mitigating the dissemination of fake news in Malaysia.
Using advanced algorithms and machine learning, AIFA matches user-submitted information with reliable sources to provide verified and accurate responses. The service supports four languages – Malay, English, Mandarin, and Tamil – ensuring accessibility for a wide audience. However, he noted that it only accepts input in text format, with plans to expand its capabilities to include videos and graphics in the future. Fahmi highlighted that AIFA aims to empower the public with trusted information
The minister also revealed that MCMC will continue working closely with social media platforms and enforcement agencies to tackle the spread of fake news. This effort will be expanded through 1,100 Digital Community Centres nationwide to ensure all Malaysians, regardless of background can fully utilise this initiative.
Fahmi revealed that the MCMC detected 20,000 instances of fake news last year, with over 17,000 removed from social media after verification. As of 27 January 2025, 1,575 pieces of misinformation have been identified by the agency, with 1,233 have been successfully taken down.
