The Department of Environment (DOE) has dismissed as false a viral infographic titled “Ranking Kebersihan Negeri Malaysia 2024”, clarifying that it neither issued, published nor verified the document circulating on social media and messaging platforms.
In a statement on Tuesday, the department stressed that it had never released any media statement, report or official response regarding any ranking of Malaysian states based on cleanliness as portrayed in the infographic.
The DOE urged the public not to circulate the graphic or treat it as an official government reference without first verifying its authenticity with the department.
“The public is advised not to believe, share or spread unverified information, as it may mislead others and create misunderstandings about the actual facts,” the statement said.
The department warned that the spread of false or unverified information could undermine public confidence in official communications relating to environmental management and conservation efforts.
To avoid confusion, the DOE reminded the public that all official announcements, reports, statistics, infographics and media statements are only published through its official communication channels, including its website and verified social media accounts.
The department also stressed that it views seriously any misuse of its name, logo or corporate identity, as well as the dissemination of false information falsely linked to the agency.
It warned that appropriate legal action may be taken against any individual or party found to have misused the department’s identity or spread misleading information associated with the DOE.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all information released to the public is accurate, authentic, transparent and credible, in line with its responsibility to safeguard and manage Malaysia’s environment.
