The DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) has strongly opposed the Madani Government’s move to bar activist and graphic artist Fahmi Reza from leaving the country, following his earlier blacklisting from entering Sabah.
DAPSY chief Woo Kah Leong stressed that restricting someone’s movement simply for expressing dissent through art and satire is unjust, adding that the DAP wing does not agree at all with the ban.
“If his writings or drawings truly violate the provisions of the law, then charge the individual in court and let a judge decide the outcome,” he said.
“Administrative power should not be abused to prevent someone from leaving the country,” Woo added.
He argued that if Fahmi’s work truly violates any law, legal action should be taken through the courts, rather than using administrative powers to impose travel bans.
Woo emphasised that such actions damage the image of the Madani administration, which claims to champion reform and justice.
He urged the government to immediately revoke the travel ban without conditions, warning that the public is closely watching such developments.
The ban came after Fahmi was denied entry into Sabah over artwork criticising the appointment of the state governor and was later blocked from travelling to Singapore to attend a music performance. —June 8, 2025
Main image: Reuters
