KUANTAN: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his commitment to protecting freedom of speech, while also drawing a line against slanderous remarks.
The Prime Minister has stated that he has no issue with individuals forming their own opinions on matters being discussed by politicians.
During a Temu Anwar session at Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi Mara, held on Tuesday (Aug 1), he addressed accusations that he does not respect freedom of speech, particularly in relation to a recent court case involving an Opposition figure.
“Every day, I face criticism as the Prime Minister, yet have I taken any action? No. And if I were to act, it would be done through legal means,” he explained.
Anwar highlighted that in the aforementioned case, it was the Selangor Royal Council that lodged the police report.
“The Ruler is not a political figure. I can respond to attacks, but the Ruler cannot,” he added.
As the head of state, the Ruler is protected by the Constitution from political attacks, hence legal action was taken against the individual involved, Anwar elaborated.
The caretaker Kedah Mentri Besar, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, recently faced two counts of sedition following remarks that allegedly implicated Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
Anwar further noted that the Sultan of Perak was now displeased with certain individuals employing the Ruler’s name to demonstrate support for a political party.
“This is not freedom; it is an abuse of freedom. Allow me to emphasize that, as long as I am Prime Minister, I will not tolerate divisive politics, particularly insults against Rulers. We must defend the principles set forth in the Constitution,” he expressed.
Regarding the role of social media in politics, Anwar acknowledged its significance but emphasized the importance of educating users on how to make the most of it.
While social media provides a wealth of information, it becomes meaningless if users fail to delve deeper into the subject matter, he warned.
“Is social media important? Yes. Is it critical? Yes. However, it should be utilized for thoughtful reading, rather than being mesmerized by one or two sentences,” he suggested.
Anwar recounted being sent a TikTok post claiming that the country is heading towards destruction.
“Where is this destruction? It turns out that TikTok is now being exploited for incitement,” he shared.
Anwar also refuted claims circulating on social media that allocations for Opposition states have been reduced, stating that these states have actually received increased funding.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
