No such thing as complete freedom, says PM
Najib Razak defends the use of the Sedition Act 1948, saying the government won’t be apologetic to critics who say it is undemocratic
(Free Malaysia Today) – The prime minister said that the preservation of racial harmony necessitated the use of the Sedition Act 1948 as there was no such thing as the complete freedom to say or do as one pleased.
In his speech at the 208th Police Day ceremony held at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) here today, Najib was quoted by The Rakyat Post as saying, “We also want to preserve the good relationship between races which is why we defend the Sedition Act 1948.
“If there is an act of violence many people will be harmed which is why we can’t be apologetic to some people who accuse us of being undemocratic.
“There is no complete freedom for anyone.”
The PM also touched on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Pota), saying it too was necessary to reduce crime and curb the spread of extremist groups such as Islamic State (IS).
Addressing concerns that Pota would be used against opposition leaders, much like the Sedition Act had been used in recent months, Najib said, “We will only use the Act on those that commit crimes that fall under its provisions.”
He also heaped praises on the country’s police force, saying they had risked life and limb to secure the safety of the people.
