Pupils arrested over viral video given early release, say cops

PETALING JAYA: The two schoolboys who were arrested and remanded over a viral video criticising the SPM History paper have been released on bail, say police.

Hulu Selangor OCPD Supt Suffian Abdullah said although police obtained a two-day remand order, the two were released on bail after police were satisfied with their investigations.

"We are still investigating the case under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act," he said in a statement on Sunday (Feb 26).

He said the remand order on the two pupils was obtained to record their statements thoroughly, check facts from all related parties, including checking their mobile phone contents and to obtain their disciplinary records from the school.

"The investigation paper will be completed and referred to the Selangor deputy prosecutor for advice and further instruction," he said.

They also called upon Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution and Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil to explain the unprecedented use of section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act against schoolchildren.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said earlier that the duo had been released from police custody at 11.30am on Sunday.

Fadhlina told The Star that she would ensure that they would sit for their other SPM papers as per normal.

"They will be allowed to sit for their SPM paper. Counsellors from the Education Ministry have also been assigned to the school to ensure that students sitting for the examinations keep their emotions in check.

"All students and teachers, however, are reminded not to issue any statements which will disrupt the harmony between race, religion, nation and international relations," said Fadhlina in a text message.