The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) should take firm action against parties abusing the internet and social media to spread slanders including those defaming the government.

Umno information technology bureau chairman Datuk Ahmad Maslan said as the 14th General Election approaches, the dissemination of false information has picked up to confuse the people including planting hatred against Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders.

"Irresponsible people are currently allowed to freely spread inaccurate information via such channels which is an unhealthy development," he told reporters after a meeting with Gua Musang Umno division IT bureau committee here today.

Ahmad who is an Umno Supreme Council member also wanted the party's IT bureau to step up its efforts to combat slanders by providing the people with the actual information.

"The bureau has an important function to clear up the confusion arising from slanders by certain groups to topple the government in the 14th General Election," he said. - BERNAMA