PM says can't stop cases involving royal critics, but against probe on Fahmi

Summary

• Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasises the people's right to criticise his administration but clarifies that he cannot interfere with cases brought by the Conference of Rulers.

• Anwar expresses his belief that activist Fahmi Reza should not be charged or arrested for his graphic, while also acknowledging the importance of laws like the Communications and Multimedia Act in addressing issues such as online harassment.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has once again reaffirmed the people’s right to criticise him and his administration, but stressed that cases brought by the Conference of Rulers are beyond his powers to stop.

Speaking to editors and reporters in Subang Jaya, Anwar explained that the rulers had objected to criticisms against the royal institution but refrained from publicly responding to such cases.

“The rulers object to being ‘attacked’ in such a manner but they did not respond because they are not in the political game.

“And sometimes these seditious (matters) touch on strong religious sentiments,” he said.

While emphasising that such matters fall outside his jurisdiction, Anwar reiterated his openness to criticism of his administration.

CMA and its application

The prime minister also addressed concerns about actions taken against graphic artist and activist Fahmi Reza.

“I don’t believe he should be charged or arrested,” Anwar stated succinctly.

Fahmi is being investigated under multiple laws, including the Sedition Act, the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA), and the Penal Code, for a graphic labelling Sabah’s new governor Musa Aman as corrupt.

The investigations were initiated following a report lodged by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

Expanding on the broader application of Section 233 of the CMA, Anwar acknowledged its necessity in tackling issues like pornography and cyberbullying.

He cited the tragic case of TikTok influencer A Rajeswary, known as Esha, as an example.

In July, Esha allegedly died by suicide after enduring weeks of relentless cyberbullying. Her death sparked widespread attention on social media, highlighting the urgent need to address online harassment.

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