THE Sedition Act 1948 is expected to be abolished this year, said de facto law minister Liew Vui Keong.

He said a cabinet meeting has decided that the act will be done away with, and the government is looking at various factors for implementation.

“We want to ensure that not all statements are regarded as seditious because we want to ensure freedom… but we can’t allow people to simply make statements that defame our rulers and leaders, especially,” he told a press conference in conjunction with Pakatan Harapan’s first year in power.

After the act is abolished, said Liew, “a new formula” will be introduced in its place.

“We in PH don’t mind people criticising us. Constructive criticism is good for the government because from there, we can progress and develop.”

He said Putrajaya is also looking at the possibility of introducing anti-stalking laws, as such behaviour has become a trend.

He added that the special cabinet committee reviewing the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) will come out with a report between next month and July.

PH has expressed commitment to restoring Sabah and Sarawak’s rights as stipulated under MA63. – Bernama, May 10, 2019.