An international human rights watchdog says it finds nothing in the speech of Hishamuddin Rais that is seditious, and calls the present sedition case against him “shameful”.

“This case is a perfect example of a the yawning, and rapidly expanding, gap between what the Malaysia government considers lawful and human rights principles protected by international law.” Human Rights Watch (HRW) Asia division deputy director Phil Robertson.

“HRW reviewed what Hishamuddin said on that stage on May 13, 2013, and found nothing he should have been prosecuted for,” Robertson said in a statement today.

Hishamuddin’s appeal against conviction for statements he made after the last general election is being heard this morning.

Last year, the High Court found Hishamuddin guilty under the Sedition Act.

If the Court of Appeal dismisses today's appeal and upholds the verdict, he will be sentenced to a fine of RM1,000 and nine months' imprisonment.

Robertson said the persecution of the prominent activist displays the disparity between Malaysian standards and international principles.

“This case is a perfect example of a yawning, and rapidly expanding, gap between what the Malaysia government considers lawful and human rights principles protected by international law.”