Back PM in repealing Sedition Act

First, I must backdate my praise for Datuk Seri Najib Razak to promising to repeal the Sedition Act in 2012.

This promise came at a timely manner because at this juncture, Malaysia is becoming a mature democracy.

Colonial-era laws like the Internal Security Act and Sedition Act have no place in a society that upholds the rule of law and freedom of expression.

Someone once said, "Lu mudah lupa", so two weeks ago, Najib took the liberty to again remind us of his promise to repeal the Sedition Act. Thank you, Mr PM, for once again reminding us Malaysians your promise to repeal the Sedition Act.

In recent times, certain quarters have raised the concerns of possible instability that will rock the nation once the Sedition Act is gone, especially with regard to racial tension.

These concerned social media users have gone on a campaign on Twitter to #kekalkanaktahasutan.

As Khairy Jamaluddin (Umno Youth chief) and Tan Keng Liang (Gerakan Youth chief) pointed out two weeks ago, the Sedition Act should not be repealed hastily, as there might be drawbacks.

But be rest assured guys, the prime minister and his team had thought this out back in 2013, even before the Youth chiefs realised it. Nevertheless, do not blame the Youth chiefs, for they, too, are concerned about the country.

In November 2013, the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) was set up to foster racial harmony and social cohesion.

This brainchild initiative reflects the peace and prosperity Najib champions. Therefore, heaps of praises should be showered upon the man for being a visionary leader. Kudos!

In view of the concerted efforts by NUCC, we should acknowledge the spirit of inclusivity Najib has tried instilling through his transformation programmes.

Ever since the NUCC's launch, a nationwide endeavour has been embarked on. Civil society movements, NGOs, students, experts in the law and even politicians from both sides of the fence were invited and consulted.

I attended at least two of these consults, and I can vouch that the Harmony Bills drafted are getting better and better. As far as my memory permits me, this is the first of its kind in Malaysia where the public is engaged to produce quality legislation.

Of course, there are segments in society, dissidents especially, who are up in arms because the government seems to be dragging its foot on this.

The de facto law minister, Nancy Shukri has reassured us, the proposed bills would not be tabled in Parliament in 2014. But fear not, here's my two cents worth of advice: hold your horses dudes and dudettes, do you not know, that a qualitative and inclusive bill needs time to be finalised?

Have you forgotten how the Peaceful Assembly Act was rushed? A nationwide campaign for feedback is not an easy task, so give them time, even if years.

The government has always been listening to us, so blame yourselves for having so much to say every day on Twitter and Facebook. Haven't you heard, "Apa lagi lu mahu"? There is simply too much for them to listen and digest!

I believe, Najib is the man for the job. He is a prime minister for all Malaysians, a visionary and an inclusive leader.

Therefore, I call upon all Malaysians to rally behind Najib in his concerted effort to repeal the Sedition Act. Back the boss!

It his time the nation stand as one to support a great cause initiated by the PM himself.

The country will be on a standstill if he is left alone in this battle! Last I check, we were glued to the television screen as 1Malaysia regardless of race and religion when Datuk Lee Chong Wei was playing badminton.

I say, it is only appropriate now that we glue ourselves to local dailies everyday as 1Malaysia, praying and hoping the Sedition Act is announced repealed. Till then, I will be gluing myself on social media sites for updates. – September 20, 2014.

My article as published in 

Astro Awani- http://english.astroawani.com/news/show/back-the-pm-to-repeal-sedition-act-adrian-lim-44315

The Malaysian Insider- http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/sideviews/article/back-pm-in-repealing-sedition-act-adrian-lim

Malay Mail Online- http://www.themalaymailonline.com/what-you-think/article/back-the-prime-minister-in-his-concerted-effort-to-repeal-the-sedition-act

Malaysian Chronicles- http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=363432:spin-or-real?-najib-serious-in-repealing-sedition-act-but-be-patient&Itemid=2#axzz3Dtx25dju