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Malaysian activist, 25, jailed 1 year for sedition

This article is more than 12 months old

Activist Adam Adli Abd Halim has been jailed a year for uttering seditious words during a talk about free and fair elections.

Sessions judge Mat Ghani Abdullah ruled that the defence had failed to raise reasonable doubt in the case against the accused, reported The Star.

“His defence was bare denial,” said judge Mat Ghani.

Adam Adli’s lawyer Latheefa Koya pleaded for a fine rather than a jail term, saying her client was currently studying and that jail would hamper his future.

It is learnt that Adam, a former Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris student, was now studying law at a private college.

“At all times, my client has been consistent in his speeches involving a free and fair election.

 

“What he did, any activist would have done,” said his lawyer Koya​ during mitigation.

DPP Mohamad Abazafree Mohd Abbas countered that while Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948 allowed for a fine or jail, a heavier sentence would better suit public interest.

The offence carries a maximum RM5,000 fine or up to three years jail, or both.

 

“I urge the court to hand down a deterrent sentence, as the accused's actions could have endangered public harmony and order,” said Mohamad Abazafree.

Judge Mat Ghani sentenced Adam Adli to 12 months' jail. 

Adam Adli claimed trial on May 23, last year to uttering seditious sentences during a talk about the results of 2013's General Elections.

He was accused of committing the offence at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall in Jalan Maharaja Lela here between 8.55pm and 11.15pm on May 13, last year.

The activist sent a series of tweets after the sentence detailing the terms and thanking his supporters.

“Dear friends, thanks for all the support! Will be released in no time,” he posted in one of the tweets.

 

 

Source: The Star, Twitter

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