Adrian Lim
Did you know that you could possibly be charged for sedition if someone hacks your Facebook status?
The right to freedom of speech and expression is enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 10 (1). This freedom however, is not an absolute right, as Parliament under certain circumstances may impose restrictions as provided under Article 10 (2). As we move into a phase where the demand for information is at an all-time high, we witness that Malaysian society is getting more mature politically. As such, the need for such freedom is all the more justified. However, there is a limbo between what is constructive criticism and what is seditious.
As articulated by most opponents of the Sedition Act, this piece of law has to go because of three distinctive elements: First, the scope of what can be considered “seditious” is in fact a carte blanche for those in power to silence dissidents or critics. Second, the blatant disregard of the truth behind so-called “seditious” goes against the very purpose of having laws enacted. Finally, ignorance of the accused’s motives will result in constructive argument being stemmed. (more…)
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