Human rights group Proham wants the federal government to repeal the newly-introduced Section 114A in the Evidence Act 1950, and to consult stakeholders before introducing any such new law in future.

In a statement, Proham said Section 114A, which came into force on July 31, “runs contrary to the accepted norm and violates the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ ”.

“This amendment reverses the presumption that a person is innocent until proven guilty.

“It will also be burdensome to an average citizen who lacks the resources to prove his or her innocence,” says the statement from Proham secretary-general Denison Jayasooria and members Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari and Michael Yeoh.

The NGO called on the government to consult the stakeholders, Suhakam and the Bar Council before introducing new legislation that affects “fundamental human rights” of every individual.

“A proper study should be made and stakeholders should be consulted before considering any future amendment,” Proham said, adding that the government should also take note of the public outcry and opposition to the legislation.

“Section 114A also seems to have the effect of indirect censorship of the Internet and add fears to those who own networks as this new section assigns culpability to them,” it said.

Proham added that it supported the prime minister’s proposal to review this provision.