Why is Malaysia still using the Sedition Act 1948?

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The Sedition Act 1948 Remains in Use Due to Ongoing Legislative Procedures and Standard Police Operating Protocols

Malaysia continues to utilise the Sedition Act 1948 because its formal abolishment is still undergoing the necessary legislative process, requiring parliamentary approval. Concurrently, the Royal Malaysia Police maintain that they must act on lodged reports as part of their standard operating procedure, particularly when multiple complaints are received, to avoid public perception of inaction.
Legislative Process for Abolition Is Pending

The complete removal of the Sedition Act 1948 from the statute books has not yet been finalised. This process necessitates that any proposed legislation to repeal the Act must first be presented and debated in both the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) and the Dewan Negara (Senate). Until these parliamentary procedures are concluded and the Act is officially repealed through these channels, it remains legally in effect.
Police Must Respond to Lodged Reports

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Azis Jamman has stated that the police are obligated to investigate if reports are lodged under the Sedition Act 1948, adhering to their standard operating procedure. He further clarified that police action is typically initiated only when multiple reports concerning the same matter are filed. This approach is intended to prevent public criticism that the police are not fulfilling their duties.
Government Policy Does Not Encourage Use of the Act

Despite the ongoing legal framework, the current Pakatan Harapan government has indicated that it does not promote the application of the Sedition Act 1948. Datuk Azis Jamman emphasised that there have been no directives from the ruling coalition instructing the use of this Act against any specific individuals. His personal stance also reportedly remains one of disagreement with the Act's continued application.

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Why is Malaysia still using the Sedition Act 1948?

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