[Criminal Law] When would one violate sedition laws?

Under what circumstances would one violate sedition laws?

What does “seditious” mean?

“seditious” when applied to or used in respect of any act, speech, words, publication or other thing qualifies the act, speech, words, publication or other thing as one having a seditious tendency.

For example incite hatred against rulers or governments, attempt to unlawfully alter established matters, undermine justice administration, cause discontent among the population, promote hostility between different groups, or question constitutional provisions or rights.

When would one violate sedition laws?

(a) does or attempts to do, or makes any preparation to do, or conspires with any person to do, any act which has or which would, if done, have a seditious tendency;

(b) utters any seditious words;

(c) prints, publishes, sells, offers for sale, distributes or reproduces any seditious publication; or

(d) imports any seditious publication.

What are the potential consequences for committing sedition?

For a first offense, the individual may be liable for a fine not exceeding RM5000, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or both.

For a subsequent offense, the individual may face imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years.

Additionally, any seditious publication found in the possession of the person or used as evidence during their trial shall be forfeited and may be destroyed or disposed of as directed by the court.

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