Bangi MP calls for moratorium on satire investigations under Act 588 following Fahmi Reza probe

BANGI, Dec 20 — Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan has called for a moratorium on investigations and prosecutions under Section 233(1) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) concerning satire and parody works.

This follows the recent police probe into graphic designer Fahmi Reza.

Syahredzan emphasised the importance of the government’s decision to amend Act 588, which will exclude satire and parody from being classified as ‘false’ under Section 233(1). He described the amendment as a vital step in protecting freedom of expression within the arts and literature.

“Fahmi Reza stated that the drawing under investigation is a form of satire, and satire should not be criminalised. The government’s decision to table an amendment bill to Act 588, which excludes satire and parody from the ‘false’ element in Section 233(1), is a necessary step and will expand the space for democracy in arts and literature,” Syahredzan said in a statement today.