January 26, 2015 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement in response to recent arrests and convictions of Malaysians under the country’s continued use of the Sedition Act:
“Following the recent announcement that the Sedition Act will be strengthened rather than repealed, Canada urges the Government of Malaysia to ensure that enforcement of its laws does not run contrary to its democratic principles by selectively prosecuting individuals for expressing views critical of the government or its policies.
“Freedom of expression is essential to any democracy, and we look forward to seeing progress on this issue.
“Canada values its long-standing and warm relationship with Malaysia and the Malaysian people, and we will continue to work together in pursuit of freedom, prosperity and security.”
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