Suhakam slams alleged arrest of TikTok user over criticism of PM

 It says the constitution guarantees the right to express dissent, criticism, and opinions on matters of public interest, including those concerning public officials and government leadership.

Suhakam said public officials must be prepared to tolerate a higher degree of scrutiny and criticism.

PETALING JAYA:

 The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) today hit out at the alleged arrest of a TikTok user under the Sedition Act for purportedly insulting the prime minister, labelling it a “disproportionate and unlawful measure”.

In a statement, Suhakam said the right to express dissent, criticism, and opinions on matters of public interest, including those concerning public officials and government leadership, is guaranteed under the Federal Constitution.

“The use of criminal sanctions in such cases raises serious concerns regarding the shrinking of civic space and risks creating a chilling effect on the exercise of free expression in Malaysia.

“Public officials must be prepared to tolerate a higher degree of scrutiny and criticism,” it said.

Jorjet Myla was reportedly arrested under the Sedition Act and remanded for three days for allegedly posting a video critical of the prime minister, drawing criticism from opposition MPs.

Attempts by the press to get Bukit Aman’s comments on the arrest have been unsuccessful. FMT has also reached out to the home ministry for comment.

Last night, Wanita DAP leader Sangeet Kaur Deo condemned the alleged arrest, saying it showed that the Sedition Act was “alive and kicking” in Malaysia despite Pakatan Harapan’s fierce opposition to the controversial law in the past.

Similarly, Suhakam said it was concerned about the continued reliance on the broad and vaguely worded provisions under the Sedition Act as well as the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) 1998.

“These laws have long been subject to criticism for their wide scope and susceptibility to inconsistent interpretation, which may result in the undue restriction of legitimate expression, including criticism of public office holders,” it said.

Suhakam urged the government and relevant enforcement authorities to immediately review the necessity of custodial measures in such cases and exercise maximum restraint in the use of such laws.

It also spoke of a need for a comprehensive review of Section 233 of the CMA and other related laws to align them with international human rights standards on freedom of expression.

“The use of criminal law to shield public figures from criticism is inconsistent with democratic principles and undermines public confidence in governance,” it said. - FMT