UNITY government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil affirmed today that the government will adhere to the court’s decision regarding the lifting of the ban on former DAP member Hew Kuan Yau’s comic book Belt and Road Initiative for Win-Winism.
Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, pointed out that while individuals are entitled to their opinions on the matter, the government’s actions are guided by judicial rulings.
The Home Ministry’s decision to lift the ban was based on a court ruling that the current government respects. Fahmi noted that public disagreement is acceptable but the government’s position follows the court’s directive.
Whether individuals agree or disagree (with the lifting of the ban), it is their right (to do so). However, the government is guided by the court’s decision.
The remarks were made following the launch of Huawei Malaysia’s Supplier Ecosystem Convention.
Moreover, Fahmi’s comments address the differing views expressed by UMNO leaders including party Youth chief Dr Muhammad Akmal Saleh and Supreme Council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi, who have voiced opposition to the ban’s removal.
On the other hand, DAP leaders have called for UMNO to respect the court’s decision.
The ban on Hew’s comic book initially imposed in October 2019 for allegedly promoting communism and socialism, was lifted by the home ministry on Tuesday (Aug 14).
Hew, also known as Superman Hew, successfully appealed against the ban in 2022. Although the previous federal government sought to reinstate the ban, the Federal Court rejected its application for leave in December of the same year. – Aug 15, 2024
Main photo credit: Bernama
