Special unit to probe crimes related to 3R needed, says Fahmi

BANGI - The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the police will review the need for a special unit to probe crimes related to the 3R (race, religion, and royalty) issues that are often raised during election campaigns.

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil expressed disappointment that certain politicians disregarded the directive from the Malay Rulers, who had said that campaigning should not include 3R issues.

"I do believe MCMC and PDRM will have to assess the necessity to perhaps set up a special unit.

"This follows the data published by the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) on the 15th general election (GE15) after a large number of 3R concerns were highlighted in a short period of time, which are exceedingly concerning," Fahmi said during a press conference, here, today.

Fahmi also welcomed the proposal for a new Act that would impose civil penalties on individuals who raise 3R issues, as it would help maintain peace and security in Malaysia.

He said Law and Institutional Reform at the Prime Minister’s Department Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said had suggested the implementation of the new Act, which may be named the "State and Nation Act," which would be similar to Singapore's Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act but tailored to the Malaysian context.

Azalina previously said that offences related to the 3R issues were investigated under the Sedition Act 1948. However, since the Act primarily focused on criminal aspects, the prosecution process was lengthy due to legal procedures.

Azalina said the new Act would provide a solution to the increasingly prominent 3R issues in the country and better fulfill the needs of future generations.