Minister We Don T Silence Dissent But Be Mature And Ethical With Opinions

---

 


Communications and Multimedia Minister Saifuddin Abdullah dismissed claims that the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government is silencing dissent, after the recent arrests of several activists.
“The government clearly upholds the freedom of expression as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
“There are criticisms in all sorts of forms such as satire work and writings with critical elements against the government, yet there was no action taken all this time.
“In fact, such criticisms are reported by the media in general and shared on social media without any interference from the government.
“The government also accepts criticisms openly and especially take note of criticisms related to the rakyat’s welfare and wellbeing,” Saifuddin (above) said in a statement today.




Artist and activist Fahmi Reza
Last weekend, artist and activist Fahmi Reza was arrested for compiling a jealousy-themed Spotify playlist that was allegedly insulting to the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
Seven individuals, including activist Mukmin Nantang, were also detained on Saturday for protesting the extension of an enhanced movement control order (MCO) in Tawau.
In his statement, Saifuddin said the freedom of expression does not mean one can express something with “seditious elements that is purposely meant to incite chaos and disgrace”, especially when it is insulting to the institution of the rulers.
“We should be able to differentiate between criticism and insult. We also cannot abandon our social responsibility in society,” he said.
Saifuddin urged the public to practice maturity and to be ethical in presenting their views and opinions, for the sake of society’s wellbeing.
“I call upon all of us to take on this principle of unity and mutual respect to maintain the harmony and the atmosphere of goodwill in the society,” he said. - Mkini

---