Bersatu Youth Chief Calls for Repeal of Sedition Act After Acquittal

The Bersatu Youth chief said the Sedition Act has outlived its usefulness and should be removed from the statute books entirely. Hilman's remarks come after he was cleared of allegations that his statements had caused public disturbance, marking a significant development in ongoing debates about the controversial law.

The Sedition Act, a colonial-era legislation that criminalises speech deemed seditious, has faced mounting criticism from civil society groups, opposition lawmakers, and legal experts who contend it is incompatible with democratic values and freedom of expression. Hilman's call adds political weight to these arguments, particularly given his position within the ruling coalition.

His acquittal signals judicial scrutiny of how the act has been applied, with courts increasingly examining whether statements genuinely constitute sedition or public alarm. This trend has emboldened advocates for its repeal, who argue the law has been used selectively to suppress legitimate political discourse and dissent.

The Sedition Act remains a contentious issue in Malaysian politics and law, with supporters arguing it is necessary to maintain public order and national harmony. However, critics maintain that alternative legislation exists to address genuinely harmful speech without the broad restrictions the current law imposes.