Police receive 153 reports against Puad Zarkashi

Malaysian police have registered a significant number of reports, totaling 153, against Datuk Dr. Mohd. Puad Zarkashi concerning statements made on his social media accounts. The reports were filed across the country by late afternoon.

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Due to the sudden reports, an intensive investigation is now being conducted under four serious legal provisions, including the Sedition Act 1948 and the Penal Code.

Initial reports were lodged by a former state government executive and the Political Secretary to the Johor Menteri Besar. These early complaints were received before a surge of similar reports followed nationwide. The Johor Police Chief, Datuk Ab. Rahaman Arsad, confirmed the investigation is proceeding intensively under four stringent legal provisions.

These include the Sedition Act 1948, specifically Section 4(1) for acts with seditious tendencies, which carries penalties of up to RM5,000 fine or three years imprisonment for a first offense. Investigations also cover Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for causing public mischief and Section 500 for defamation. Additionally, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, related to the misuse of network facilities, is being examined, carrying a maximum fine of RM50,000 or one year imprisonment.

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Strict action will be taken against any individual found to be misusing network facilities or applications for illegal purposes.

Authorities have stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found to be misusing network facilities or applications for illegal purposes. The public is urged to respect the investigation process and contribute to maintaining a safe digital space through mature, fact-based, and respectful communication.

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The public is urged to respect the investigation process and work together to ensure the digital space remains safe through mature, fact-based, and mutually respectful communication.