Lawyers for Liberty co-founder Eric Paulsen can be sued by the Malaysia Islamic Development Department over his tweet, said Lawyer Datuk Mohd Hafarizam Harun. – The Malaysian Insider file pic, January 24, 2015.
The Malaysia Islamic Development Department (Jakim) could consider filing a libel suit against lawyer Eric Paulsen, who tweeted that the department promoted extremism through Friday sermons.
Lawyer Datuk Mohd Hafarizam Harun said Jakim could file the libel suit which could serve as a lesson to others.
“All stakeholders, including the government, opposition, civil society and the people at large should be more responsible, aware and sensitive of religious issues and sensitivities.
“A law, no matter how sophisticated or encompassing it is, will have no meaning if it is not respected,” he told Bernama when asked about Paulsen’s tweet.
The co-founder of Lawyers for Liberty tweeted on January 9: “Jakim is promoting extremism every Friday. Govt. needs to address that if serious about extremism in Malaysia.”
It was removed after criticism from various quarters. Paulsen was subsequently arrested by police in Brickfields and investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948.
Bukit Aman CID director Datuk Seri Mohmad Salleh on January 14 said the investigation papers on Paulsen's case would be handed over to the Attorney-General's Chambers following his release on police bail after being remanded for two days.
Hafarizam said amendment to the Sedition Act by including provision for the protection of the sanctity of Islam must be done fast as many were insulting the religion.
He said there were still many acts that could be considered for amendment, like the Penal Code, to prevent irresponsible parties from issuing sensitive statements against any religion.
Hafarizam also suggested intensified efforts by Jakim and other related government agencies to create extensive and deeper understanding of Islam, not just among Muslims but non-Muslims as well.
Hafarizam also suggested intensified efforts by Jakim and other related government agencies to create extensive and deeper understanding of Islam, not just among Muslims but non-Muslims as well.
He said this was not against the law as the Federal Constitution did not prohibit giving of explanations or exposure to Islamic teachings. – Bernama
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