Malaysian journalist arrested over alleged racial remarks at Palestine forum
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 — Police have arrested a Free Malaysia Today journalist for questioning after a video allegedly showed him raising racial issues during a public lecture on Palestine, sparking three police reports.
The 30-year-old suspect was arrested around midnight, according to Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar.
"In the session, the journalist raised a question on the Palestinian issue by comparing it with racial conditions in Malaysia," Kumar stated.
He said the investigation followed a question posed to UK politician George Galloway that was suspected to contain racist and inflammatory elements.
The case is being investigated under the Sedition Act 1948, the Penal Code, and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Kumar confirmed that three police reports have been received regarding the same incident.
The journalist issued a public apology yesterday, expressing deep regret for his poorly framed question.
He specifically apologised for mentioning the Chinese and Malay communities, calling such references unnecessary.
Media reports indicate the journalist has since resigned from Free Malaysia Today.
His lawyer, Rajsurian Pillai, said his client was remanded for one day and is expected to be released this afternoon.
Kumar stressed police will take firm action against anyone believed to be inciting hatred within the community.
He advised the public to exercise prudence when making statements or sharing content online.