KUALA LUMPUR — Controversial freelance graphic artist Fahmi Reza has been released on police bail after giving his statement, with authorities seizing a mobile phone believed to have been used to upload content deemed defamatory and insulting towards the Johor Regent, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Datuk M. Kumar said Fahmi’s statement was recorded today as part of investigations by the Classified Criminal Investigation Unit (USJT) under the Prosecution/Legal Division (D5) of the CID.
The probe relates to a statement linked to the case that was uploaded on Fahmi Reza’s Facebook account on December 15.
“After police completed the recording of his statement, Fahmi was released on police bail,” Kumar said in a statement.
He added that police had received a total of 284 reports nationwide in connection with the same issue.
According to Kumar, the case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 for acts with a seditious tendency, which carries a penalty of a fine not exceeding RM5,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both upon conviction.
The investigation is also being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the improper use of network facilities or services.
If convicted, the offence carries a fine of up to RM500,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
Kumar stressed that police would take firm action without compromise against any individual found to have insulted the royal institution.
He also reminded the public to remain prudent and responsible when making statements or sharing content in public spaces or on social media. – December 19, 2025