Home Ministry reports 1,434 investigations into 3R issues over 10 years, resulting in 165 prosecutions, says Saifuddin
PETALING JAYA: The Home Ministry has reported that over the past 10 years, the police has opened 1,434 investigation papers involving race, religion, and royalty (3R) issues, resulting in 165 individuals being prosecuted in court.
In a written reply to the Senate, Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution (pic) said the government, through the police, assures that enforcement of laws related to 3R issues is carried out fairly, transparently and consistently, without any element of bias or political influence.
“Every individual suspected of committing an offence will be investigated based on the prevailing legal provisions without taking into account their background, position or political status.
“The police must be trusted to conduct investigations transparently and without interference. Therefore, all parties are reminded not to issue any statements that touch on elements of 3R,” he stressed.
Saifuddin said this in response to Senator Tiew Way Keng who sought details on measures taken by the government to prevent the misuse of 3R issues and the number of related prosecutions over the past decade.
“We remain committed to upholding the right to freedom of speech, provided that it complies with the regulations that have been established.”
He added that the police will take firm action by carrying out arrests and prosecutions against any individual who commits offences involving insulting, ridiculing or exploiting issues related to 3R, based on existing legal provisions.
Saifuddin said to curb 3R issues, the government has stepped up law enforcement, increased online monitoring by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), issued stern warnings from the police, and set up a special Task Force 3R to oversee social media platforms.
“All parties are urged to refrain from making statements involving 3R elements, reiterating that any breaches will be dealt with firmly and lawfully.”
