Minister: Govt still mulling over Sedition Act

The Government is still mulling whether to amend the controversial Sedition Act 1948 or to abolish it altogether.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Nancy Shukri  said the Government was studying ways to address weaknesses of the Act.

"Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak) has already committed to (abolish the Act) but at the same time, I hope you appreciate the current situation.

"The process to create a new law is going on, and so is the discussion on whether we can amend the Sedition Act or draft a law that will complement it," said Nancy in reply to Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament Tuesday.

Anwar had asked why the Sedition Act was still being used when Najib had committed its abolition.
He also said the continued use of the "draconian" law was against Najib's promise.

Nancy said the only reason the Sedition Act was being was because there was no other act to deal with those with the tendency to incite and create chaos in the country.

She also stressed the Government practised the separation of powers and thus would not step into the shoes of others.

"The one responsible for this process is the Attorney-General's Chambers, so as the Executive, we do not get involved.

"They are the ones who have the power to charge, prosecute or drop the charges," said Nancy.

She said the Government was committed to protecting Malaysians and action would be taken against anyone disrupting the peace and harmony of the nation.
"No one is above the law," she added.