Authorities and netizens in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, have raised concerns over the circulation of counterfeit RM100 banknotes that closely resemble genuine currency. Photos comparing the real and fake notes were shared online, prompting calls for increased vigilance among the public.
According to reports, a Facebook user posted images in the group “百万镇情报站2.0” showing two RM100 notes side by side, labelling the upper one as counterfeit and the lower as authentic. The fake bills reportedly mimic the true notes’ colours and feature Malaysia’s first Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Rahman, on the front, with Sabah’s Mount Kinabalu South Peak and Mulu National Park’s limestone formations on the reverse.
Key Differences Between Fake and Real Notes
Despite the close resemblance, several differences were noted. The counterfeit notes are slightly smaller than the genuine bills, with a reduced size of the hibiscus flower motif. Most noticeably, the signature on the fake note differs from that on authentic currency. Additionally, four rectangular blocks next to the hibiscus are printed on the flower itself in the counterfeit version, whereas on real notes, they appear separately.
Public Advised to Exercise Caution
Netizens and authorities alike have urged the public to carefully inspect high-denomination notes, especially RM100 bills, before accepting them. Cashiers, retailers, and ordinary citizens are advised to familiarise themselves with the security features of authentic currency to prevent being defrauded.
The circulation of sophisticated counterfeit notes in Johor highlights the need for heightened awareness, particularly as such bills can easily be passed off as legitimate in daily transactions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have called on anyone who comes across suspicious currency to report it to the police immediately.