Photo: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Institutional reform requires a careful approach, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in defending the government's decision to appeal the recent court ruling on Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
"It's not just about the court's decision. The court gives its opinion, and we will examine it.
"If it aligns with the reform, then yes," he told reporters after attending the Asean Law Forum 2025 here on Thursday (Aug 21).
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Anwar was asked to explain why the government is appealing the ruling and how the move reconciles with its intention to introduce institutional reforms and free speech.
Anwar said, for instance, the government must find a balanced approach towards the freedom to hold assemblies.
"I have some issues, as the Malay Rulers have asked if it (freedom to assemble) applies to palace grounds.
"So we need to think about that.
"So, even though we respect the Federal Court decision, (we need to look at) certain positions and areas that should not be open or allowed, namely the palaces and their surroundings," he said.
ALSO READ: Federal Court overturns punishment for failure to notify police of peaceful assembly
On Tuesday (Aug 19), the Court of Appeal declared that the terms "offensive" and "annoy" under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act are unconstitutional as they violate the protection of freedom of speech under the Federal Constitution.
The following day, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) would appeal the ruling.
On the issue of freedom to assemble, the Federal Court ruled on July 1 that punishing individuals for failing to notify the police five days in advance before a peaceful assembly conflicts with the Federal Constitution.
