Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has defended the police investigation on matters relating to Race, Religion, and Royalty (3R). The Home Minister explained that the police had to probe Opposition leaders including Perikatan Nasional chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang due to reports lodged against them.
In response to a question from Muhyiddin during Question Time, Saifuddin emphasized that discussing topics such as race, progress, and dignity is permissible. However, spreading unsupported claims like Pakatan sponsoring a group of Jews and deeming it dangerous to vote for Pakatan is not allowed.
Muhyiddin had asked if the Home Minister would instruct the Inspector-General of Police to withdraw his statement prohibiting parties from discussing 3R issues. Muhyiddin argued that as long as the discussions do not contradict the Federal Constitution, go against the Malay Rulers, or violate relevant laws, they should be allowed.
However, Saifuddin shared that reports were lodged against Muhyiddin on November 17, 2022, for his remarks related to 3R. The Home Minister gave an example of Muhyiddin accusing Pakatan of sponsoring a group of Jews. Saifuddin explained that such accusations needed to be investigated.
Another example provided by Saifuddin was the statement made by Abdul Hadi on July 30, alleging that during its 22-month administration, Pakatan Harapan had tried to change the Constitution, abandon Islam, and challenge the special position of the Malays. Saifuddin questioned the validity of these claims and stated that a report was lodged regarding this matter.
Saifuddin also criticized PAS for their double standards regarding their political cooperation with DAP. He pointed out that PAS had previously cooperated with DAP, despite accusing Pakatan of rejecting Islam, supporting communists, and betraying the Malay rulers. Saifuddin highlighted that a report was lodged following these statements.
The Home Minister informed that a total of 104 investigation papers had been opened in relation to 3R issues, involving politicians from both the government and the Opposition. Saifuddin stated that both sides are being investigated. He further mentioned that words not allowed under the Penal Code or the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 serve as guidelines for the government in addressing 3R issues.
