The Community Development Department (JAPEM) under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) issued a warning regarding a fake TikTok account using the username “@bruneitiktok” which has falsely claimed that Brunei residents can register for a Monthly Welfare Assistance (BKB) amounting to BND100 and for His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s personal gift in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
In an official statement, JAPEM confirmed that the information being circulated is entirely false. The department clarified that it has no affiliation with the TikTok account, which has unlawfully used JAPEM’s official logo as its profile picture.
The department urged the public to exercise caution, verify the authenticity of information before believing or sharing it on social media and avoid providing personal details to unverified sources.
JAPEM said it takes the misuse of its official logo seriously and has reported to the authorities. The department said spreading false information with the intent to misleading is an offence under the Public Order Act, Cap 148, Section 34.
Individuals found guilty of disseminating false reports or making false statements that disrupt public order may face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of BND 3,000, or both. – James Kon
