What action are groups calling for against the author and publisher?

Question

Accepted Answer

Groups Demand Stern Action for Alleged Insult to National Emblem

Several groups, including Pasir Gudang Umno Youth and the youth wings of PAS, MIC, and MCA, along with three non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Pasir Gudang, are demanding stringent measures against the author and publisher of the book Rebirth: Reformasi, Resistance, and Hope in New Malaysia. These organisations have lodged police reports, asserting that the book contains an insult to the national coat of arms, which they view as a symbol of national sovereignty.
Calls for Stripping Citizenship and Severe Penalties

The primary demand from these groups is for the government to take decisive action, including the potential stripping of citizenship for individuals deemed disrespectful. They expressed dissatisfaction with recurring incidents of insult, where apologies are often tendered but do not result in what they consider adequate consequences. The groups specifically urged the Home Ministry, led by Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin, to expedite action and ensure that those found guilty do not escape severe penalties.
Classification of Insult as Treason

Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid, chairman of the Malaysian Youth Council's (MYC) Legal, Advocacy and Human Rights Bureau, stated that any form of insult directed at the Constitution should be considered treason, an offense that is unpardonable. This perspective elevates the alleged insult beyond a mere act of disrespect to a matter of national security and constitutional integrity.
Proposed Legal Recourse and Enforcement

In line with their calls for stern action, Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid suggested expediting the application of Section 5 of the National Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963. This legislation stipulates a jail term of up to three years and a fine of up to RM20,000 for offenders. He believes that imprisonment serves as the most effective deterrent for those who insult Malaysia's coat of arms and that the Home Ministry should remain firm even if an apology is offered.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What action are groups calling for against the author and publisher?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends