Suhakam regrets Government’s decision to retain sedition law

(The Star) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) is in favour of a National Harmony Act to replace the Sedition Act.

The Commission said it regretted the Government’s decision to retain and strengthen the Sedition Act as it was not designed to promote, nurture and maintain national peace and harmony.

“The commission … is of the view that the legislation (National Harmony Act) can effectively counter the challenges of absolute freedom of speech, and the perceived threat to democratic values.

“At the same time it can ensure that Malaysians enjoy the constitutionally guaranteed and fundamental right to freedom of expression,” said Suhakam acting chairman Datuk Dr Khaw Lake Tee.

Bernama yesterday reported Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Joseph Kurup as saying that the proposed National Harmony Act was still being discussed.

The minister told the Dewan Negara’s sitting on Thursday that the Government would consider formulating the Act if it was deemed necessary and suitable after the Sedition Act was retained.

Dr Khaw in her statement said the Government must ensure that the amendments to existing laws or promulgation of new ones are based on full engagement and meaningful consultations with all stakeholders.

The engagement and consultation, she added, must be done in an impartial, clear manner and in compliance with due process, and not rushed.

“All laws or amendments to existing legislation as announced must be centred on the spirit and principles of the Federal Constitution, the Rukun Negara and international human rights principles,” the statement added.