‘Sedition Act must not be abused’

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KUCHING: The Sedition Act 1948 should be implemented holistically to ensure that nobody take advantage of it.

Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal said that the act was crucial to maintain the harmony and stability of the multi-racial community in the country.

“Not only should the act be maintained and strengthened but it is also important to enforce it holistically,” he said at a press conference held at Kuching International Airport VIP Lounge after attending a ceremony where he was conferred Panglima Negara Bintang Sarawak (PNBS) which carries the title ‘Dato Sri’ by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at the Astana yesterday morning.

Shafie, who is also Umno vice president, explained that the act was not only for the Malays in protecting the sanctity of Islam but also to protect the people regardless of race.

“We need this act to preserve peace and harmony of all races as this is what enables our country to continue experiencing stability and peace,” he said.

He also pointed out that calls for the secession of Sabah and Sarawak from Malaysia should not have occurred in the first place.

“This is a prejudicial situation where there will be those who will take advantage if the country was in an unstable state. As such, we should not be easily be misled by irresponsible people whether they are from our country or not,” he said

The minister called on the people who have views on the act to voice their concerns to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“I am confident that the prime minister is ready to hear what the people have to say.”