Former FMT journalist to be released after police complete recording in Palestin

KULIM, Jan 15 — A former Free Malaysia Today journalist detained in a probe over alleged racial remarks at a Palestine forum will be released after police complete recording his statement, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said today.

Saifuddin stated he was informed by the Inspector-General of Police this morning about the release.

"I was informed that the former journalist involved will be released after his statement is recorded," he said.

He added that investigations are ongoing, with further decisions under the Attorney General's Department's jurisdiction once the investigation papers are complete.

Saifuddin emphasized police are only fulfilling their duty to ensure law compliance.

"When there is a complaint, police will consider further action, that is the first process," he explained.

He said he respects freedom of speech but noted it must come with responsibility.

Saifuddin claimed the former journalist made an inaccurate comparison between the situation in Palestine and treatment of the Chinese community in Malaysia.

"The answer from the parliamentarian was very clear, meaning the comparison was completely inaccurate," he said.

He added the media outlet involved has apologized and stated it was not their agency's stance.

"Some disagree with the detention on freedom of speech principles, while others believe this has crossed the line," he said.

The former journalist was detained to assist investigations into a viral video raising racial issues at a Palestine forum.