SUBANG JAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says that he does not agree with any charge or arrest of political graphic artist Fahmi Reza.
Fahmi was recently summoned by Bukit Aman over a satirical piece featuring newly appointed Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman.
“Frankly, I think for the purpose of this matter, I want to tell agencies like Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the police that on the criticisms towards the Prime Minister, let it be.
“On Fahmi Reza, I disagree if he is charged or detained,” he said during an interview with editors-in-chief here yesterday.
Fahmi, known for his sharp political commentary, recently resurfaced after a period of hibernation with a new wave of satirical posters.
The activist had also recently launched a website to educate young voters on politics and democracy.
He is currently being probed by Bukit Aman under the Sedition Act, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for improper use of network facilities, and Section 504 of the Penal Code for intentional insult with the intent to provoke a breach of the peace.
Anwar said he personally did not believe that all criticisms towards the government or the Prime Minister require a police probe.
However, investigations should be launched on comments on sensitive matters like the Malay Rulers or religion.
“If it involves cases related to the Malay Rulers, it is beyond me.
“Sometimes there are inciting statements that also touch on racial and religious sentiments.
“I don’t agree for action to be taken against all cases, but criticisms related to race and religion, we don’t condone those.”
Anwar added that a moratorium on cases related to Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act was unnecessary as the authorities needed to tackle pornography and cyberbullying.
