Harris Idaham Rashid, a member of the wing’s executive committee, described Saifuddin’s actions as a form of intimidation aimed at silencing the Malay-Muslim community and particularly those standing in solidarity with Palestine.
“Is this an attempt to suppress public discourse on this issue? The content of the prime minister’s interview with CNN, especially regarding Israel, has caused unease among some Malaysians who had hoped for a firmer stance on the issue,” he said in a statement.
Saifuddin made the warning last Sunday, urging those who were spreading the slander to stop doing so, or they would have to face the music.
Harris said the footage of the CNN interview had prompted individuals unaffiliated with political parties to express their opinions on Anwar’s position without questioning his long-standing commitment to and stance against the genocide in Palestine.
“Bersatu Youth believes that the government should not resort to intimidating citizens who hold differing views on the prime minister’s statements during the CNN interview,” he said.
He pointed out that freedom of expression is one of the core principles championed by the parties in the government.
“Such a statement (by Saifuddin) does not contribute to the advancement of freedom of expression and media freedom in the country.
“Recognising Malaysia’s position at 107th on the World Press Freedom Index – a drop of 34 places compared to 2023 – we call for the safeguarding and upholding of the right to free speech and expression in Malaysia,” he said.
On Tuesday, the Gerak Gempur Media Sosial Rakyat Secretariat, a coalition of 20 NGOs, lodged a police report over a viral video of the interview, which claimed that Anwar recognised Israel’s existence.
Its spokesman, Shahbudin Embun, said the video, believed to have been uploaded to the Papa Berry Studios channel by an individual, was aimed at inciting and provoking the public, especially the Muslim community.
Yesterday, Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said 11 reports have been received over the video which allegedly defamed Anwar in connection with his interview with CNN.
He said police have recorded statements from 12 witnesses and that the case is being investigated under Section 504 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.