Political fugitives Alvin Tan and Ali Abdul Jalil, who are both seeking political asylum in foreign countries after being charged under the Sedition Act here, should continue their “fight” from abroad and not open ‘tom yam’ shops there.

Political activist Hishamuddin Rais, who decades ago left the country for close to 20 years, advised Tan and Ali not to seek economic wealth abroad but to ensure that a fair government is established in Malaysia.

“Spread your ideas, not open tom yam shops or start a business,” Hishamuddin told Malaysiakini .

“I sought political asylum because I was convinced I would be detained without trial. I would lose time in my noble cause to bring down a ruthless government,” he added.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has been told to "stop lying" about extradition treaties with the United States to bring Tan, who came into the spotlight for sex blogging, back to the country.

PKR lawyer Latheefa Koya in a statement today flayed Zahid for being "dishonest" in his claim that Malaysia will not pursue an extradition for Tan, even though there is an extradition treaty with the United States, where Alvin is currently seeking asylum.

"Extradition laws and the bilateral treaty between Malaysia and the US do not allow the extradition of persons who are seeking asylum from political persecution," Latheefa ( left ) said.

"There is no offence of sedition recognised under American law. Under extradition laws it is mandatory that there must be corresponding offence in both countries before an extradition is allowed," she added.

Latheefa said that the US government "will certainly" not entertain any extradition requests from the Malaysian government over this matter.

She also said that the government's inability to obtain the cooperation of friendly nations "highlights" the "draconian" nature of the Sedition Act.

"Once again, Malaysia faces international embarrassment and isolation due to the misdeeds and injustice of of the BN government's rule," she said.

Tan ( right ) is seeking political asylum in the US after being charged under the Sedition Act for a controversial Hari Raya greeting he published on his Facebook page last year.

Ali, meanwhile, is seeking political asylum in Sweden after being hit with a slew of sedition charges.