PETALING JAYA: Artist and activist Fahmi Reza is being investigated by Bukit Aman over a graphic on newly appointed Sabah governor Musa Aman.
Fahmi posted a picture of himself with the graphic on X before going to Bukit Aman to be questioned by the cops, which he quipped was his “first date” with the police so far this year.
The artist is being investigated under the Sedition Act, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) for the improper use of network facilities, and Section 504 of the Penal Code for intentional insult with the intent to provoke a breach of the peace.
Fahmi posted the graphic in question on Dec 17, the same day Musa was appointed as Sabah’s 11th governor.
According to Malaysiakini, Fahmi criticised the government for not abolishing Section 233 of the CMA and also took aim at communications minister Fahmi Fadzil and his former lawyer Syahredzan Johan, who is now the MP for Bangi.
He pointed to Syahredzan’s statement earlier this month that the recently passed amendments to the CMA would ensure that satire and parody would no longer be criminalised.
“I am being investigated (over a satirical graphic). What happened? Can we trust those in power?” the artist was quoted as saying.
Musa, Sabah’s longest serving chief minister, succeeds Juhar Mahiruddin, whose term will conclude at the end of the month. He was also awarded the “Tun” title.
Some had criticised his appointment, citing his previous corruption and money laundering charges.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers freed him of all 46 charges in 2020.
