Malaysian authorities are investigating controversial statements made by political figures during the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign. Perikatan Nasional (PN) election director Sanusi Nor and Umno leaders Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and Shukri Shamsuddin are under scrutiny for remarks that have raised concerns about promoting ill will and public alarm.
Sanusi Nor, the Kedah menteri besar, suggested that various ethnic groups in Malaysia could consider returning to their ancestral homelands outside the country. This statement has led to two police reports being filed against him. State police chief Alzafny Ahmad stated that investigations are underway, and Sanusi will be summoned to have his statement recorded as soon as possible.
Separately, police reports have been lodged against Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and Shukri Shamsuddin over their remarks during the campaign. Asyraf suggested that DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook could be a candidate for the Negeri Sembilan menteri besar’s post if Aminuddin Harun loses the contest for Linggi. Loke dismissed this suggestion as malicious, pointing out that the state constitution requires the menteri besar to be a Malay-Muslim assemblyman.
Additionally, Negeri Sembilan DAP lodged a police report over a claim by Shukri Shamsuddin that the party “controls the palace.” State DAP publicity secretary Lim Chun Weng described the allegation as malicious and baseless, intended to frighten Malay voters. The Negeri Sembilan palace has since reminded political parties contesting the state election not to involve the monarchy in their campaign speeches or activities.
Investigations into these matters are being conducted under various sections of Malaysian law, including the Election Offences Act 1954, the Penal Code, and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. Authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining public order and harmony, especially during the election period. The public is urged to refrain from making statements or spreading unverified information that could incite hostility between races or groups.
As the Negeri Sembilan state election approaches on August 1, these investigations highlight the delicate balance between political expression and the need to uphold public order. The outcomes of these cases may influence future political discourse and the conduct of election campaigns in Malaysia.