He said Malaysians practise freedom of speech through various content on social media, such as TikTok. In addition, the opposition is free to state its views.

“Freedom of speech is prioritised but this does not mean freedom to slander, make unfounded allegations or threaten democracy.

“Freedom of speech is healthy here but the right to speak is limited by existing laws,” he told the media after witnessing the signing of an MoU by CelcomDigi, SoftBank and SC-NEX here today.

Fahmi was responding to a statement by former Bersih chairman Ambiga Sreenevasan, who had called on the unity government to prioritise fundamental rights, such as freedom of speech, and the use of the Sedition Act.

Ambiga said she was disappointed with the administration’s commitment to reform, which she described as very slow and focusing only on fighting corruption.

Fahmi said the Sedition Act would only be used for isolated cases involving issues that could have an impact on the royal institution or threaten democracy.

He said only a few cases have gone to court.

Fahmi also said he was prepared to meet Ambiga to discuss this matter further.

He said Ambiga should review the various policies drawn up because they were proof that the government was being far-sighted and was trying to bring about reforms that did not just include fighting corruption.

Fahmi said continued political stability would enable all these planned policies to succeed.