KUALA LUMPUR – A Facebook account administrator, John Mule anak Alai, 48, was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment and fined RM50,000 by the Miri Sessions Court today for posting extremely offensive comments related to the passing of Malaysia’s fifth prime minister, the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
As the administrator of the Facebook account “Bat Tuo Sai”, he posted the comments on an Astro Awani Facebook post announcing the former prime minister’s death. The remarks were found to be insulting and ridiculing verses of the Holy Quran, as well as mocking the late Abdullah.
The accused was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the improper use of network facilities by uploading a communication deemed grossly offensive, with the intention of causing annoyance or distress to others.
In a statement today, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said it views seriously any misuse of digital platforms that insults religion, incites hatred, or undermines harmony in Malaysia’s multi-racial and multi-religious society.
The commission also urged the public to be wise and responsible when using social media and to comply with existing laws.
Earlier, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia lodged a report with MCMC over the comments posted by John on April 15, 2025.
According to JAKIM director-general Sirajuddin Suhaimee, the remarks mocked Islamic teachings, particularly at a time when the nation was mourning the passing of the former prime minister. – March 11, 2026