MEDIA activist Firdaus Abdillah Hamzah was today released by the police after a day of questioning over his allegedly embarrassing tweets about the Johor royalty.

His lawyer, Mohammad Muzammil Mohammad Hairiri told The Malaysian Insight Firdaus was released by Johor policw about 4.50pm.

Firdaus had given his statement to the police about 2.30pm.

“He was released on police bail. The investigating officer said Firdaus was released as his statement had been taken,” said Mohammad Muzammil.

Firdaus was arrested in Pahang yesterday for allegedly posting tweets which had embarrassed the Johor royalty. He was taken to Johor for investigation.

Muzammil said the police had said that it is normal procedure to take a suspect out of state to where the report against him was lodged for questioning.

“They said this is standard operating procedure as the report was lodged in Johor,” he said.

Firdaus, who runs current affairs website Neon Berapi, has in the past taken potshots on social media at Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.

Firdaus is under investigation for insulting to provoke a breach of the peace under Section 504 of the Penal Code, and  for improper use of network facilities to create offensive messages under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Earlier today Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad expressed disappointment at Firdaus’ arrest as everyone has the right to criticise. 

“Freedom of speech is important in a democracy. With the exception of threats, slander or insults towards ruling monarchs, any leader can be criticised without affecting the right of the people to voice out,” he said on Twitter.

“I am disappointed with the arrest of the social media activist.”

Tunku Ismail, meanwhile, has disavowed the arrest.

“This has nothing to do with us and please, in this holy month, my family and I would like to carry out our official duties to be with the people and perform rituals,” he said, also on Twitter. – May 10, 2019.