Police arrest journalist over remarks at public forum under sedition laws

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 17 — Police confirmed the arrest of a journalist over remarks made during a public forum, investigating him under sedition and communications laws.

Federal Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said the 30-year-old local man was detained in USJT on Jan. 17 around midnight.

He is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act, Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

"A thorough investigation will be conducted in accordance with existing legal provisions," police said.

Police emphasized firm action against individuals believed to incite sedition or hostility within society.

"The public is also advised to always be prudent and responsible when making any statements or sharing content in public spaces or on social media," the statement read.

The arrest follows remarks made at a public forum, though specific details of the comments were not disclosed.

Sedition laws in Malaysia have been used in past cases involving journalists and activists.

No further information on the journalist's identity or the forum was provided.

Police did not specify a timeline for the investigation or potential charges.