Global Human Rights Federation berated Home Minister Saifuddin after he confirmed there is no longer a gag order imposed on Zakir.
Nazri Aziz, former Malaysian ambassador to the United States and ex-law minister, reaffirmed his stance as a strong advocate of free speech while also stressing the necessity of retaining the Sedition Act.
“To me, there is always a limit to free speech. Any speech that may lead to riots—racial or sectarian—it is too late once it happens. So, we need the Sedition Act because it is a preventive law,” he said in an interview with Malaysiakini at his residence.
Nazri firmly supported the continued enforcement of the Sedition Act, citing its importance in taking action against individuals such as Zakir Naik. The controversial preacher was previously investigated over remarks made about Hindus and Chinese Malaysians during a lecture in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, on 3 August 2019.
Earlier today, Global Human Rights Federation president S Shashi Kumar condemned Saifuddin’s announcement, reminding the government of Zakir’s history of criticising non-Islamic religions. He warned that such speeches could disrupt Malaysia’s diverse society.
“This is about the sensitivity of non-Muslims. We have to step up to safeguard our sensitivities too. And I want to see how the non-Muslim leaders in the Madani administration justify lifting this gag order on Zakir,” he stated.
Yesterday, in the Dewan Rakyat, Saifuddin confirmed that the police ban on Zakir, related to investigations into his 2019 speech, was no longer in effect.
Nazri further described Zakir as a former Hindu who now denounces Hinduism and its followers. When asked about Saifuddin’s remarks, which came after concerns over Zakir’s recent appearance at a religious event in Perlis, Nazri responded, “I don’t agree. Unless he is only allowed to speak without touching on other religions.”
“Why the need to speak ill of another religion? You are Muslim, then be Muslim. He’s not even Malaysian. If you come to my country, you better respect the law. I don’t care if he’s Muslim or not,” he said, criticising Zakir, an Indian national who was granted Malaysian permanent residency in April 2016.
Nazri reiterated his position on free speech, but emphasised that the Sedition Act is essential to prevent harmful consequences. “Yes, free speech, but the Sedition Act must remain. And I am a strong proponent of the Sedition Act,” he concluded.