KUALA LUMPUR — Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) has expressed disappointment over the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) decision to fine social media influencer Mohamad Shafiq Abdul Halim RM10,000, calling it a threat to freedom of expression.
In a statement, the party’s information bureau chairman Khaliq Mehtab Mohd Ishaq described the fine as unjust and an act of intimidation against citizens who voice concerns over government decisions.
The penalty was imposed under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which prohibits the dissemination of content deemed offensive with intent to annoy.
Shafiq’s controversial video—titled “Aset Bumiputera: Menara KL Tergadai Raya Ke-2”—questioned the transfer of management of the Kuala Lumpur Tower from a fully Bumiputera-owned company to a new entity reportedly holding only 30% Bumiputera equity.
The takeover allegedly occurred hastily during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, despite the matter being under judicial review.
Khaliq emphasised that the video merely raised valid questions and expressed concern—rights protected under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution.
“We have carefully reviewed the video multiple times. There is nothing offensive or defamatory about it. It reflects the voice of a concerned citizen, not a criminal act,” he said.
He criticised the government for what he described as a contradiction between its rhetoric of openness and reform and its readiness to punish public dissent.
Khaliq concluded by urging the MCMC to “act justly and immediately drop the charges” against Shafiq, warning that failure to do so would further erode public confidence in institutions tasked with safeguarding democratic rights. — May 9, 2025