Some 48 civil societies show support for Noor Farida over sedition investigation

PETALING JAYA: A collection of 48 civil societies has expressed their support for G25 spokesperson Datuk Noor Farida Ariffin (pic), who is now being investigated for sedition for her remarks on khalwat (close proximity).

In a statement on Friday, Plan of Action for Malaysia (PoAM) denounced the efforts to threaten and silence the group of eminent Malays, known as G25.

“We call on the parties to have a rational, reasonable and civilised discussion and state their opinions courteously.

“This would benefit the country more than calling for G25 to be banned or threatening to commit acts of violence against them,” the statement read.

PoAM stated that they believe that the public appreciated and respected the voices of reason and rationality in national issues like G25, who it said provided important feedback to the government and the public on governance issues in order to maintain the country's democratic way of life.

“We also call on the authorities and leaders of ruling coalition to speak out and condemn threats made against G25.

“It is important for them to protect freedom of speech and all civil society organizations without distinction,” said the group.

The statement was endorsed by 48 civil society groups including All Women’s Action Society (AWAM), Bersih 2.0, Council of Churches Malaysia (CCM), National Human Rights Society (HAKAM) and Sisters in Islam (SIS).