Malaysia has charged opposition leader and former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin with sedition for allegedly insulting the country's former king, his lawyer said on Tuesday (August 27).

Takiyuddin Hassan, the lawyer representing Muhyiddin, argued that at the court, decisions cannot be based on assumptions.

“Evidence must be presented to convince the court that the event took place before a request can be made," Takiyuddin added.

Muhyiddin, who led Malaysia for 17 months between 2020 and 2021, was charged at a court in the northeastern state of Kelantan with sedition over remarks made in a political speech this month. He pleaded not guilty, Takiyuddin said.

Malaysia practices a unique form of monarchy, where the country's nine sultans take turns to be king every five years. The monarchy plays a largely ceremonial role and is held in deep respect. Negative remarks about royalty can be prosecuted under a colonial-era Sedition Act.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Malaysia has charged opposition leader and former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin with sedition for allegedly insulting the country's former king, his lawyer said on Tuesday (August 27).

Malaysia has charged opposition leader and former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin with sedition for allegedly insulting the country's former king, his lawyer said on Tuesday (August 27). Takiyuddin Hassan, the lawyer representing Muhyiddin, argued that at the court, decisions cannot be based on assumptions. “Evidence must be presented to convince the court that the event took place before a request can be made," Takiyuddin added. Muhyiddin, who led Malaysia for 17 months between 2020 and 2021, was charged at a court in the northeastern state of Kelantan with sedition over remarks made in a political speech this month. He pleaded not guilty, Takiyuddin said. Malaysia practices a unique form of monarchy, where the country's nine sultans take turns to be king every five years. The monarchy plays a largely ceremonial role and is held in deep respect. Negative remarks about royalty can be prosecuted under a colonial-era Sedition Act. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Malaysia charges ex-PM Muhyiddin with sedition over alleged remarks on royalty, lawyer says

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On Monday, the Malaysian Prime Minister, Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that the Parliament will be dissolved. This move has paved the way for snap elections which is a year earlier ahead of the country’s deadline for general elections.&nbsp;

According to sources, the announcement comes amid growing pressure from Ismail’s party United Malays National Organization, but those colleagues loyal to Umno president Zahid Hamidi. Reportedly, they want the voting to be held as early as possible since the beginning of this year.&nbsp;

"I had an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (paramount ruler) yesterday afternoon…He has consented to dissolving Parliament on Monday in accordance to Article 40 (2)(b) and Article 55(2) of the Federal Constitution," said Datuk Seri Ismail.

UMNO is Malaysia’s biggest party in the ruling coalition and has been feuding with the allies and wants to win the upcoming elections alone, sources said. The dissolution was expected to happen sometime this week as the PM met with Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah, at least twice last week between Thursday and Sunday, said the report.&nbsp;

Malaysia follows a constitutional monarchy and the monarch has absolute authority over whether they would consent to the dissolution of Parliament or not, after which voters must cast their ballots within 60 days. Therefore, an early election can be expected by early November.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-pm-ismail-sabri-yaakob-raises-prospect-of-early-election-523109">Malaysia PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob raises prospect of early election</a>

The early November date for the elections is chosen to avoid the clash with Malaysia’s end-of-the-year monsoon season which has resulted in devastating floods over the past years. On Sunday, the country's monarch Sultan Abdullah warned citizens to “brace themselves and make preparations to face possible weather phenomena”.&nbsp;

According to a report by The Straits Times, UMNO leadership and the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition which it leads are set to meet on late Monday and Tuesday, which will give them a head start on preparations for the upcoming campaign trail when no other party is ready. On the other hand, UMNO’s main opposition Pakatan Harapan (PH) will only be finalising their candidates and manifesto by October 29, said the report.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Perikatan Nasional (PN), the largest bloc in PM Ismail's governing coalition up until last week, were lobbying the Palace to dissolve the Parliament until the monsoon passes early next year.&nbsp;

Notably, together the PN and PH control six state governments and have indicated that they would not follow even if the federal legislature is dissolved. Furthermore, they will hold state elections only next year, ahead of the September deadline, said the report. Therefore, only three UMNO-controlled states will have their state elections coincide with the Parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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On Monday, the Malaysian Prime Minister, Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that the Parliament will be dissolved. This move has paved the way for snap elections which is a year earlier ahead of the country’s deadline for general elections.

On Monday, the Malaysian Prime Minister, Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that the Parliament will be dissolved. This move has paved the way for snap elections which is a year earlier ahead of the country’s deadline for general elections. According to sources, the announcement comes amid growing pressure from Ismail’s party United Malays National Organization, but those colleagues loyal to Umno president Zahid Hamidi. Reportedly, they want the voting to be held as early as possible since the beginning of this year. "I had an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (paramount ruler) yesterday afternoon…He has consented to dissolving Parliament on Monday in accordance to Article 40 (2)(b) and Article 55(2) of the Federal Constitution," said Datuk Seri Ismail. UMNO is Malaysia’s biggest party in the ruling coalition and has been feuding with the allies and wants to win the upcoming elections alone, sources said. The dissolution was expected to happen sometime this week as the PM met with Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah, at least twice last week between Thursday and Sunday, said the report. Malaysia follows a constitutional monarchy and the monarch has absolute authority over whether they would consent to the dissolution of Parliament or not, after which voters must cast their ballots within 60 days. Therefore, an early election can be expected by early November. ALSO READ: Malaysia PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob raises prospect of early election The early November date for the elections is chosen to avoid the clash with Malaysia’s end-of-the-year monsoon season which has resulted in devastating floods over the past years. On Sunday, the country's monarch Sultan Abdullah warned citizens to “brace themselves and make preparations to face possible weather phenomena”. According to a report by The Straits Times, UMNO leadership and the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition which it leads are set to meet on late Monday and Tuesday, which will give them a head start on preparations for the upcoming campaign trail when no other party is ready. On the other hand, UMNO’s main opposition Pakatan Harapan (PH) will only be finalising their candidates and manifesto by October 29, said the report. Meanwhile, Perikatan Nasional (PN), the largest bloc in PM Ismail's governing coalition up until last week, were lobbying the Palace to dissolve the Parliament until the monsoon passes early next year. Notably, together the PN and PH control six state governments and have indicated that they would not follow even if the federal legislature is dissolved. Furthermore, they will hold state elections only next year, ahead of the September deadline, said the report. Therefore, only three UMNO-controlled states will have their state elections coincide with the Parliamentary elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Malaysia: PM dissolves Parliament, calls for snap elections

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion.

The palace said the two held a "routine" meeting to discuss government matters. Its statement did not mention dissolution. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's office did not have an immediate comment.

An election is not due until September 2023, but Ismail has been under pressure from some factions of his ruling coalition to hold the vote earlier for a stronger mandate and due to infighting.

If he dissolves parliament soon, the election would come just as the economy starts to feel the pinch of rising costs and a global slowdown. It would also coincide with the year-end monsoon season and floods, which could reduce voter turnout.

Ismail met King Al-Sultan Abdullah at the national palace at 4 p.m. (0800 GMT) and left about 45 minutes later.

Before the meeting, Ismail said he would mainly discuss cabinet matters with the king and that a date for dissolution of parliament would be submitted only if there was time, the Bernama news agency said.

"Still unsure whether it will be brought up. If it takes too long to discuss cabinet issues, it will be about cabinet only," Ismail said.

His government is set to present its 2023 budget in parliament on Friday, the finance ministry has said, putting to rest some speculation that a dissolution could be announced before that.

An election must be held within 60 days of dissolution.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy and the king typically acts on the prime minister's advice. But the king does wield certain discretionary powers, including withholding consent for the dissolution of parliament.

MIXED VIEWS IN RULING COALITION

Last week, Ismail's party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the biggest in the ruling coalition, said the premier would seek the king's consent to dissolve parliament this year, spurring speculation that Ismail could call polls any day.

However, Ismail's coalition is not unanimous on the timing of an election.

Many alliance partners have cited economic problems, such as the rising cost of living and the anticipated year-end floods, as reasons not to hold a vote this year.

Malaysia was hit late last year by unusually heavy rain and floods that caused damage of about 6 billion ringgit ($1.3 billion).

Some cabinet ministers wrote to the monarch this week asking him not to hold elections this year due to flood risks, according to domestic media.

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Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion. The palace said the two held a "routine" meeting to discuss government matters. Its statement did not mention dissolution. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's office did not have an immediate comment. An election is not due until September 2023, but Ismail has been under pressure from some factions of his ruling coalition to hold the vote earlier for a stronger mandate and due to infighting. If he dissolves parliament soon, the election would come just as the economy starts to feel the pinch of rising costs and a global slowdown. It would also coincide with the year-end monsoon season and floods, which could reduce voter turnout. Ismail met King Al-Sultan Abdullah at the national palace at 4 p.m. (0800 GMT) and left about 45 minutes later. Before the meeting, Ismail said he would mainly discuss cabinet matters with the king and that a date for dissolution of parliament would be submitted only if there was time, the Bernama news agency said. "Still unsure whether it will be brought up. If it takes too long to discuss cabinet issues, it will be about cabinet only," Ismail said. His government is set to present its 2023 budget in parliament on Friday, the finance ministry has said, putting to rest some speculation that a dissolution could be announced before that. An election must be held within 60 days of dissolution. Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy and the king typically acts on the prime minister's advice. But the king does wield certain discretionary powers, including withholding consent for the dissolution of parliament. MIXED VIEWS IN RULING COALITION Last week, Ismail's party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the biggest in the ruling coalition, said the premier would seek the king's consent to dissolve parliament this year, spurring speculation that Ismail could call polls any day. However, Ismail's coalition is not unanimous on the timing of an election. Many alliance partners have cited economic problems, such as the rising cost of living and the anticipated year-end floods, as reasons not to hold a vote this year. Malaysia was hit late last year by unusually heavy rain and floods that caused damage of about 6 billion ringgit ($1.3 billion). Some cabinet ministers wrote to the monarch this week asking him not to hold elections this year due to flood risks, according to domestic media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Malaysia PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob raises prospect of early election

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient.

The office did not say&nbsp;whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament.

He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine. Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament. He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia PM comes in contact with Covid patient, in quarantine now

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Top 10 world news today: Another knife attack in France, Mahathir Mohamad Bizarre tweets, and more!

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad waded into the controversy surrounding France and the Muslim world and made a bizarre assertion saying that Muslims had the right to be angry and to "kill millions of French people". In an apparent reference to the colonial times, Mohamad justified this 'right' by mentioning ''massacres of the past".

On Thursday, Mahathir Mohamad posted a series of 13 tweets from his personal Twitter handle and aired his opinions on issues ranging from women's clothing in western countries, West's adherence to their 'own religion', gender equality among other things and lashed out at French President Emmanuel Macron for not being "civilised" and for being "primitive" for targetting Muslims and Islam.

He started the first tweet with words 'RESPECT OTHERS' but said that he did not approve killing of the French teacher by the Chechen youth.

Mohamad's tweets have come on the day when an attacker killed at least three&nbsp;people including a woman who he beheaded in the French city of Nice. The incident is being treated as a "terrorist" attack. The day also saw a Saudi man getting arrested in Jeddah after he attacked a guard of the French embassy in the city in Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-knife-attack-live-update-government-raises-alert-to-attack-emergency-level-338782">Click here for latest updates on knife attack in France</a>

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12. Muslims have a right to be angry and to kill millions of French people for the massacres of the past.
— Dr Mahathir Mohamad (@chedetofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/chedetofficial/status/1321765587530338304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In his tweets, the former Malaysian PM has made no reference to Nice attack or the attack in Jeddah.

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Beheading of Samuel Paty, the teacher who showed Prophet Mohammed cartoons in school has prompted Emmanuel Macron&nbsp; to promise a crackdown on Islamic extremism. But the move has inflamed tensions, with protests against France erupting in several Muslim countries, with some urging a boycott of French goods.

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Since Paty's killing, French officials have re-asserted the right to display the cartoons, and the images have been widely displayed at marches in solidarity with the killed teacher.

That has prompted anger in parts of the Muslim world, with some governments accusing Macron of pursuing an anti-Islam agenda.

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad waded into the controversy surrounding France and the Muslim world and made a bizarre assertion saying that Muslims had the right to be angry and to "kill millions of French people".

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad waded into the controversy surrounding France and the Muslim world and made a bizarre assertion saying that Muslims had the right to be angry and to "kill millions of French people". In an apparent reference to the colonial times, Mohamad justified this 'right' by mentioning ''massacres of the past". On Thursday, Mahathir Mohamad posted a series of 13 tweets from his personal Twitter handle and aired his opinions on issues ranging from women's clothing in western countries, West's adherence to their 'own religion', gender equality among other things and lashed out at French President Emmanuel Macron for not being "civilised" and for being "primitive" for targetting Muslims and Islam. He started the first tweet with words 'RESPECT OTHERS' but said that he did not approve killing of the French teacher by the Chechen youth. Mohamad's tweets have come on the day when an attacker killed at least three people including a woman who he beheaded in the French city of Nice. The incident is being treated as a "terrorist" attack. The day also saw a Saudi man getting arrested in Jeddah after he attacked a guard of the French embassy in the city in Saudi Arabia. Click here for latest updates on knife attack in France 12. Muslims have a right to be angry and to kill millions of French people for the massacres of the past. — Dr Mahathir Mohamad (@chedetofficial) October 29, 2020 × In his tweets, the former Malaysian PM has made no reference to Nice attack or the attack in Jeddah. Also Read | Saudi man arrested in Jeddah after attacking French consulate guard Beheading of Samuel Paty, the teacher who showed Prophet Mohammed cartoons in school has prompted Emmanuel Macron to promise a crackdown on Islamic extremism. But the move has inflamed tensions, with protests against France erupting in several Muslim countries, with some urging a boycott of French goods. × Since Paty's killing, French officials have re-asserted the right to display the cartoons, and the images have been widely displayed at marches in solidarity with the killed teacher. That has prompted anger in parts of the Muslim world, with some governments accusing Macron of pursuing an anti-Islam agenda.

Muslims have right to be angry and kill millions of French people: Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad

The largest party in Malaysia's ruling coalition declared its support for Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, providing some respite for the premier who has faced calls to resign after a failed bid to impose a state of emergency.

Malaysia's PM Muhyiddin gets reprieve from coalition's key ally

Malaysia's King Al-Sultan Abdullah rejected a request by Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin for him to declare a state of emergency in response to the coronavirus crisis.

WION Dispatch: Malaysian King rejects PM Muhyiddin's plea to declare emergency

Malaysia's embattled leader faces state elections Saturday that are his biggest political test since taking office, with analysts saying he desperately needs a win to strengthen his tenuous hold on power.

A defeat for Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin's allies in Sabah state on Borneo will erode support among his seven-month-old government's coalition partners, increasing pressure for snap national polls, observers warn.

Adding to his problems, the election comes just days after opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim launched a bid to topple his administration, claiming he had mustered enough support from MPs to take over.

Malaysia has been gripped by political turmoil since the collapse in February of a reformist government, which was headed by Mahathir Mohamad and included Anwar, amid bitter infighting.&nbsp;

Muhyiddin seized power without an election and leads a coalition backed by a scandal-plagued party, but his administration has only a wafer-thin majority in parliament and critics say it is illegitimate.&nbsp;

The Sabah elections were called after a Muhyiddin ally launched a bid to take over the opposition-controlled local government. But rather than cede power, the chief minister dissolved the state assembly.

About 1.1 million people are eligible to vote for 73 assembly seats in the state on the northeastern tip of jungle-clad Borneo island, which is home to a dizzying array of indigenous groups. &nbsp;

Loose coalitions are backing the government and the opposition, but analysts say the vote is too close to call. Results are expected late Saturday.

The outcome will not directly affect the balance of power at the national level, but it is a key test of Muhyiddin's popularity.

Despite taking power without a democratic vote, he has won praise for his government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak, and received a 69 percent approval rating in a recent survey.

"He needs a win to show... that the high popularity he enjoys can be translated into votes on the ground," Ibrahim Suffian, head of independent polling firm Merdeka Center, told AFP.&nbsp;

"If he loses badly, then the government could potentially collapse."

Muhyiddin has faced pressure from his allies to call a general election soon to secure a stronger mandate, but some observers believe he wants to delay as long as possible.&nbsp;

That, however, may become difficult if he fares badly in Sabah.

Anwar's power play has added to pressure on Muhyiddin but does not appear to have gained traction for now.

He has refused to reveal the number of MPs backing him while the king, who appoints the country's premier, has postponed an appointment to see him due to ill health.

Malaysia's embattled leader faces state elections Saturday that are his biggest political test since taking office, with analysts saying he desperately needs a win to strengthen his tenuous hold on power.

Malaysia's embattled leader faces state elections Saturday that are his biggest political test since taking office, with analysts saying he desperately needs a win to strengthen his tenuous hold on power. A defeat for Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin's allies in Sabah state on Borneo will erode support among his seven-month-old government's coalition partners, increasing pressure for snap national polls, observers warn. Adding to his problems, the election comes just days after opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim launched a bid to topple his administration, claiming he had mustered enough support from MPs to take over. Malaysia has been gripped by political turmoil since the collapse in February of a reformist government, which was headed by Mahathir Mohamad and included Anwar, amid bitter infighting. Muhyiddin seized power without an election and leads a coalition backed by a scandal-plagued party, but his administration has only a wafer-thin majority in parliament and critics say it is illegitimate. The Sabah elections were called after a Muhyiddin ally launched a bid to take over the opposition-controlled local government. But rather than cede power, the chief minister dissolved the state assembly. About 1.1 million people are eligible to vote for 73 assembly seats in the state on the northeastern tip of jungle-clad Borneo island, which is home to a dizzying array of indigenous groups. Loose coalitions are backing the government and the opposition, but analysts say the vote is too close to call. Results are expected late Saturday. The outcome will not directly affect the balance of power at the national level, but it is a key test of Muhyiddin's popularity. Despite taking power without a democratic vote, he has won praise for his government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak, and received a 69 percent approval rating in a recent survey. "He needs a win to show... that the high popularity he enjoys can be translated into votes on the ground," Ibrahim Suffian, head of independent polling firm Merdeka Center, told AFP. "If he loses badly, then the government could potentially collapse." Muhyiddin has faced pressure from his allies to call a general election soon to secure a stronger mandate, but some observers believe he wants to delay as long as possible. That, however, may become difficult if he fares badly in Sabah. Anwar's power play has added to pressure on Muhyiddin but does not appear to have gained traction for now. He has refused to reveal the number of MPs backing him while the king, who appoints the country's premier, has postponed an appointment to see him due to ill health.

Malaysian PM faces major test in state polls

Malaysia's king named former interior minister Muhyiddin Yassin as the new prime minister on Saturday in a shock decision that sidelined old rivals Mahathir Mohamad and Anwar Ibrahim after a week of political turmoil.

Malaysia's king appoints Muhyiddin Yassin as prime minister

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said the Muslim world is in a "state of crisis". #WION #WIONDispatch #MalaysiaPM #Mahathir Mohamad

WION Dispatch: Malaysia PM flags concerns of Muslims

India has strongly dismissed reports in the Pakistani media that it denied Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad the right to fly over India during his recent visit to Pakistan. Indian government sources said the reports were "false and motivated."

Mohamad had been chief guest at Pakistan's National Day on February 23.&nbsp;

WION has learnt that the Malaysian PM had to take a longer route to Pakistan despite the Directorate General of Civil Aviation saying he could fly over India since Pakistan had blocked its airspace to flights overflying India.

The government sources told WION that it was strange that Pakistan did not make an exception even for the chief guest of their National Day, thereby forcing him to fly a longer route.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force had on February 26 conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/iaf-operation-in-balakot-india-calls-pakistans-nuclear-bluff-199844">an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakot</a> in the Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The air strike was in retaliation for the February 14 suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">over 40 CRPF personnel dead</a>.&nbsp;

A day later, on February 27,&nbsp;the Pakistan Air Force dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control.

Pakistan said the bombs were aimed at displaying its "deterrence capabilities". India says the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

Pakistan's airspace has remained partially closed since February 27. And the country's civil aviation authority has since then denied permission to planes overflying India to enter Pakistani airspace, including apparently that of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.&nbsp;

India has strongly dismissed reports in the Pakistani media that it denied Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad the right to fly over India during his recent visit to Pakistan.

India has strongly dismissed reports in the Pakistani media that it denied Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad the right to fly over India during his recent visit to Pakistan. Indian government sources said the reports were "false and motivated." Mohamad had been chief guest at Pakistan's National Day on February 23. WION has learnt that the Malaysian PM had to take a longer route to Pakistan despite the Directorate General of Civil Aviation saying he could fly over India since Pakistan had blocked its airspace to flights overflying India. The government sources told WION that it was strange that Pakistan did not make an exception even for the chief guest of their National Day, thereby forcing him to fly a longer route. The Indian Air Force had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The air strike was in retaliation for the February 14 suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. A day later, on February 27, the Pakistan Air Force dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said the bombs were aimed at displaying its "deterrence capabilities". India says the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets. Pakistan's airspace has remained partially closed since February 27. And the country's civil aviation authority has since then denied permission to planes overflying India to enter Pakistani airspace, including apparently that of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Did not deny Malaysia PM Mahathir Bin Mohamad right to fly over India: Government sources

Malaysia's prime minister said Tuesday the surprise <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-court-frees-indonesian-in-kim-jong-nam-murder-case-202483">release of an Indonesian woman </a>who was on trial for assassinating the North Korean leader's half-brother followed the "rule of law", after suspicions of meddling amid an intense lobbying effort by Jakarta.

Siti Aisyah was freed by a Malaysian court Monday after prosecutors withdrew a murder charge without any explanation, more than two years after her arrest for the 2017 assassination of Kim Jong Nam at Kuala Lumpur airport.

Her sudden release prompted questions about interference in Malaysia's justice system, particularly after the Indonesian government revealed that it had lobbied Kuala Lumpur on the case, including pressure from President Joko Widodo.

But Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad told reporters in parliament that the decision was in line with "the rule of law".

"There is a law that allows charges to be withdrawn. That was what happened. I do not know in detail the reasons," he said, adding he was unaware of any negotiations between Indonesia and Malaysia on the issue.

On Monday, Indonesian officials released a letter from the country's justice minister to Malaysia's attorney-general, which said Aisyah had been "deceived" and sought her release. The attorney-general agreed to the request last week.

Her swift release had sparked anger in Malaysia, and accusations that the government had caved in to diplomatic pressure.

"Any govt can just pressure Malaysia to release a suspect in a criminal case?" wrote one user on Facebook.

Another, John Lim, commented that Aisyah's release was "definitely not according to the rule of law".

She had been on trial alongside a Vietnamese woman, Doan Thi Huong, who was left distraught as she was not freed at the same time.

The pair always denied murder, insisting they were tricked by North Korean spies into carrying out the Cold War-style hit using a toxic nerve agent and thought it was just a prank.

Huong's lawyers have now asked the attorney-general to withdraw her murder charge, and prosecutors may on Thursday inform the Shah Alam High Court, outside Kuala Lumpur, whether the application has been successful.

The women's lawyers have presented them as scapegoats. They say the real murderers are four North Koreans -- formally accused of the crime alongside the women -- who fled Malaysia shortly after the assassination.

South Korea accuses the North of plotting the murder of Kim, an estranged relative of Kim Jong Un who was once seen as heir apparent to the North Korean leadership. Pyongyang denies the accusation.

Malaysia's prime minister said Tuesday the surprise release of an Indonesian woman who was on trial for assassinating the North Korean leader's half-brother followed the "rule of law", after suspicions of meddling amid an intense lobbying effort by Jakarta.

Malaysia's prime minister said Tuesday the surprise release of an Indonesian woman who was on trial for assassinating the North Korean leader's half-brother followed the "rule of law", after suspicions of meddling amid an intense lobbying effort by Jakarta. Siti Aisyah was freed by a Malaysian court Monday after prosecutors withdrew a murder charge without any explanation, more than two years after her arrest for the 2017 assassination of Kim Jong Nam at Kuala Lumpur airport. Her sudden release prompted questions about interference in Malaysia's justice system, particularly after the Indonesian government revealed that it had lobbied Kuala Lumpur on the case, including pressure from President Joko Widodo. But Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad told reporters in parliament that the decision was in line with "the rule of law". "There is a law that allows charges to be withdrawn. That was what happened. I do not know in detail the reasons," he said, adding he was unaware of any negotiations between Indonesia and Malaysia on the issue. On Monday, Indonesian officials released a letter from the country's justice minister to Malaysia's attorney-general, which said Aisyah had been "deceived" and sought her release. The attorney-general agreed to the request last week. Her swift release had sparked anger in Malaysia, and accusations that the government had caved in to diplomatic pressure. "Any govt can just pressure Malaysia to release a suspect in a criminal case?" wrote one user on Facebook. Another, John Lim, commented that Aisyah's release was "definitely not according to the rule of law". She had been on trial alongside a Vietnamese woman, Doan Thi Huong, who was left distraught as she was not freed at the same time. The pair always denied murder, insisting they were tricked by North Korean spies into carrying out the Cold War-style hit using a toxic nerve agent and thought it was just a prank. Huong's lawyers have now asked the attorney-general to withdraw her murder charge, and prosecutors may on Thursday inform the Shah Alam High Court, outside Kuala Lumpur, whether the application has been successful. The women's lawyers have presented them as scapegoats. They say the real murderers are four North Koreans -- formally accused of the crime alongside the women -- who fled Malaysia shortly after the assassination. South Korea accuses the North of plotting the murder of Kim, an estranged relative of Kim Jong Un who was once seen as heir apparent to the North Korean leadership. Pyongyang denies the accusation.

Release of Indonesian woman in North Korea case within rules: Malaysian PM

Malaysia's new leader Mahathir Mohamad meets his Thai counterpart late Wednesday in his first visit to his northern neighbour as hopes rise that he can help prospects for peace in Thailand's violence-scarred south.&nbsp;

Thailand's mainly Muslim southern region bordering Malaysia has been in the grips of a low-level but bloody insurgency for more than a decade, as ethnic Malay militants battle the Buddhist-majority state for greater autonomy.

The insurgency has seen almost 7,000 people -- mostly civilians -- killed since 2004, although the death toll in 2017 was the lowest in 13 years amid a tighter security operation.

Malaysia has long acted as a facilitator for brokering peace talks between the Thai government and Mara Patani, an umbrella group that claims to be a political wing representing the shadowy network of rebel fighters clashing with state forces.

But the talks have stalled in the past year, and both countries recently appointed new representatives to lead the delicate negotiation process.&nbsp;

Mahathir's visit is "expected to add momentum to the southern Thailand peace dialogue process", Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday 
On Wednesday 93-year-old Mahathir will meet with junta head Prayut Chan-O-Cha before a joint press conference.

Panitan Wattanayagorn, a security advisor to Thailand's deputy prime minister, told AFP that Malaysia's role was essential in ensuring "peace and stability" in the restive southern states.&nbsp;

"This gives us hope to move the peace process forward," he said. "We need Malaysia as a facilitator."&nbsp;

But analysts of the Deep South conflict remain sceptical of moves to jumpstart fractious talks months before expected elections in February.

"Mara Patani said they are not going to come to the table until there is a democratically elected government in Thailand," Don Pathan, a Thailand-based independent analyst, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Most importantly, the BRN, the group that controls virtually all the combatants on the ground, are not part of the dialogue."

The BRN, or Barisan Revolusi Nasional, is believed to oversee most fighters but has long refused to talk barring international mediation -- which the Thai government has consistently rejected.

Thailand's three southernmost provinces were colonised over a century ago.

But the majority Malay Muslim population have long chafed under Bangkok's rule. 
Rights groups have accused both the insurgents and security forces of widespread human rights abuses in the region.

How far talks go depends not on Malaysia, but on the Thai military which has "dragged its feet" on the process, said Paul Chambers of Naresuan University, an expert on the conflict.

"The fact that the talks have fallen off could mean that the junta has seen them more as a public relations stunt than as a sincere endeavour."&nbsp;

Mahathir's visit to Thailand will be the first for the statesman since he swept to a surprise victory in the country's national poll in May.

He will also meet with members of the Malaysian diaspora on Thursday, followed by a public lecture at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn University on the two countries' relationship.&nbsp;

Malaysia's new leader Mahathir Mohamad meets his Thai counterpart late Wednesday in his first visit to his northern neighbour as hopes rise that he can help prospects for peace in Thailand's violence-scarred south.

Malaysia's new leader Mahathir Mohamad meets his Thai counterpart late Wednesday in his first visit to his northern neighbour as hopes rise that he can help prospects for peace in Thailand's violence-scarred south. Thailand's mainly Muslim southern region bordering Malaysia has been in the grips of a low-level but bloody insurgency for more than a decade, as ethnic Malay militants battle the Buddhist-majority state for greater autonomy. The insurgency has seen almost 7,000 people -- mostly civilians -- killed since 2004, although the death toll in 2017 was the lowest in 13 years amid a tighter security operation. Malaysia has long acted as a facilitator for brokering peace talks between the Thai government and Mara Patani, an umbrella group that claims to be a political wing representing the shadowy network of rebel fighters clashing with state forces. But the talks have stalled in the past year, and both countries recently appointed new representatives to lead the delicate negotiation process. Mahathir's visit is "expected to add momentum to the southern Thailand peace dialogue process", Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday On Wednesday 93-year-old Mahathir will meet with junta head Prayut Chan-O-Cha before a joint press conference. Panitan Wattanayagorn, a security advisor to Thailand's deputy prime minister, told AFP that Malaysia's role was essential in ensuring "peace and stability" in the restive southern states. "This gives us hope to move the peace process forward," he said. "We need Malaysia as a facilitator." But analysts of the Deep South conflict remain sceptical of moves to jumpstart fractious talks months before expected elections in February. "Mara Patani said they are not going to come to the table until there is a democratically elected government in Thailand," Don Pathan, a Thailand-based independent analyst, told AFP. "Most importantly, the BRN, the group that controls virtually all the combatants on the ground, are not part of the dialogue." The BRN, or Barisan Revolusi Nasional, is believed to oversee most fighters but has long refused to talk barring international mediation -- which the Thai government has consistently rejected. Thailand's three southernmost provinces were colonised over a century ago. But the majority Malay Muslim population have long chafed under Bangkok's rule. Rights groups have accused both the insurgents and security forces of widespread human rights abuses in the region. How far talks go depends not on Malaysia, but on the Thai military which has "dragged its feet" on the process, said Paul Chambers of Naresuan University, an expert on the conflict. "The fact that the talks have fallen off could mean that the junta has seen them more as a public relations stunt than as a sincere endeavour." Mahathir's visit to Thailand will be the first for the statesman since he swept to a surprise victory in the country's national poll in May. He will also meet with members of the Malaysian diaspora on Thursday, followed by a public lecture at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn University on the two countries' relationship.

Deep south conflict tops agenda as Malaysian PM visits Thailand

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government.

Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia due to her profligate spending on luxury goods and imperious manner, arrived at the anti-corruption agency before 10:00 am (0200 GMT).

Wearing a bright green dress and headscarf, the 66-year-old emerged close to 11:00 pm and was whisked away in a car. Officials are said to be in the final stages of investigating her over the alleged looting of state fund 1MDB and she could reportedly be charged soon.

It was the second time she had been questioned by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly ousted from office at elections in May after six decades in power.&nbsp;

A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland.

Najib was last week hit with a barrage of money-laundering and abuse of power charges over the scandal. It is alleged that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank accounts. He denies any wrongdoing.

Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefited from the plundering of 1MDB.

After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur.

Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986.

Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he lost power to a reformist alliance led by Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government. Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia due to her profligate spending on luxury goods and imperious manner, arrived at the anti-corruption agency before 10:00 am (0200 GMT). Wearing a bright green dress and headscarf, the 66-year-old emerged close to 11:00 pm and was whisked away in a car. Officials are said to be in the final stages of investigating her over the alleged looting of state fund 1MDB and she could reportedly be charged soon. It was the second time she had been questioned by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly ousted from office at elections in May after six decades in power. A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland. Najib was last week hit with a barrage of money-laundering and abuse of power charges over the scandal. It is alleged that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank accounts. He denies any wrongdoing. Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefited from the plundering of 1MDB. After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur. Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986. Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he lost power to a reformist alliance led by Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier.

Malaysia ex-PM's wife quizzed for almost 13 hours in graft probe

Malaysian police on Monday freed the head of a pro-democracy group which organised a mass rally calling on Prime Minister Najib Razak to resign over a massive corruption scandal.

Maria Chin Abdullah, chair of the pro-reform NGO alliance &quot;Bersih&quot;, was detained on November 18 on the eve of the rally and kept in solitary confinement.

Her arrest under a law designed to combat terrorism sparked international criticism including from the US State Department.

Despite her arrest, some 20,000 Malaysians clad in the yellow of the reformist Bersih campaign flooded Kuala Lumpur for the second time in 15 months.

They were venting anger over allegations that billions of dollars were stolen from state investment fund 1MDB, Najib&#39;s brainchild.

&quot;Chin has been freed. She is cheerful,&quot; her lawyer Gurdial Singh Nijar told AFP.

&quot;The police freed her because they have no grounds for her detention.&quot;

Chin could not be reached for comment but was expected to address her supporters at Independence Square. They have been holding nightly vigils demanding her freedom.

Malaysia has been gripped for more than a year by the allegations of looting involving 1MDB, a state investment fund which Najib founded and oversaw.

Najib, 63, and 1MDB deny wrongdoing.

But the US Justice Department, which has filed lawsuits to seize assets it says were purchased with stolen 1MDB money, says the fund was pillaged in an audacious campaign of fraud and theft that involved an unnamed top Malaysian official.

A Malaysian cabinet official has since admitted that individual was Najib.

Najib last year abruptly shut down Malaysian investigations into the affair, fired the attorney general and purged ruling party critics Few expect him to be toppled anytime soon.

Najib had earlier condemned Bersih&#39;s rally as an opposition plot &quot;to unseat a democratically elected government&quot;.&nbsp;

(AFP)

Maria Chin Abdullah's arrest under a law designed to combat terrorism sparked international criticism

Malaysian police on Monday freed the head of a pro-democracy group which organised a mass rally calling on Prime Minister Najib Razak to resign over a massive corruption scandal. Maria Chin Abdullah, chair of the pro-reform NGO alliance "Bersih", was detained on November 18 on the eve of the rally and kept in solitary confinement. Her arrest under a law designed to combat terrorism sparked international criticism including from the US State Department. Despite her arrest, some 20,000 Malaysians clad in the yellow of the reformist Bersih campaign flooded Kuala Lumpur for the second time in 15 months. They were venting anger over allegations that billions of dollars were stolen from state investment fund 1MDB, Najib's brainchild. "Chin has been freed. She is cheerful," her lawyer Gurdial Singh Nijar told AFP. "The police freed her because they have no grounds for her detention." Chin could not be reached for comment but was expected to address her supporters at Independence Square. They have been holding nightly vigils demanding her freedom. Malaysia has been gripped for more than a year by the allegations of looting involving 1MDB, a state investment fund which Najib founded and oversaw. Najib, 63, and 1MDB deny wrongdoing. But the US Justice Department, which has filed lawsuits to seize assets it says were purchased with stolen 1MDB money, says the fund was pillaged in an audacious campaign of fraud and theft that involved an unnamed top Malaysian official. A Malaysian cabinet official has since admitted that individual was Najib. Najib last year abruptly shut down Malaysian investigations into the affair, fired the attorney general and purged ruling party critics Few expect him to be toppled anytime soon. Najib had earlier condemned Bersih's rally as an opposition plot "to unseat a democratically elected government". (AFP)

Malaysia frees anti-PM protest leader amid condemnation

Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters marched in Malaysia&#39;s capital on Saturday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Razak over his alleged involvement in a multi-billion dollar misappropriation scandal.

Protesters clad in yellow shirts marched through the heart of Kuala Lumpur -- bringing traffic to a standstill in several tourist spots -- to gather in front of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers after an initial plan to assemble at Independence Square was thwarted by police.

Turnout was lower than a similar rally last year, with news portal Malaysiakini estimating around 40,000 participants. As many as 200,000 people showed up last year at one point. Turnout for this year&#39;s rally may have been hurt by fears of violence and arrests of leaders from the&nbsp;pro-democracy group, Bersih, that organised Saturday&#39;s rally. Several opposition leaders were also detained just a day before the demonstration, along with Bersih leaders.

Police had said the rally is illegal and that they would not hesitate to use tear gas or water cannon if things got out of hand. State news agency Bernama said about 7,000 policemen will be on duty near the protest areas.

Still, spirits were high among those that gathered, with drums and vuvuzelas heard along with speeches, songs and chants by participants calling for a clean Malaysia and people power.

Former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad, Najib&#39;s fiercest critic, joined protesters in front of the Twin Towers. &quot;We are no longer a democracy, we are known as a kleptocracy. This is the time we work together to bring down this cruel government,&quot; said 91-year-old Mahathir.

Muhyiddin Yassin -- the former deputy premier who now leads a new party chaired by Mahathir -- was also present, leading the crowds in chants of &quot;Step down Najib!&quot;

The demonstration is unlikely to shake the prime minister, though, who has denied wrongdoing and weathered the crisis, consolidating power by cracking down on dissenters and curbing media groups and activists. &quot;We are not here to bring down the country. We love this country! We are not here to tear down the government, we&#39;re here to strengthen it,&quot; Bersih deputy chair Shahrul Aman Shaari told the crowds gathered at the National Mosque.

Another Bersih leader Hishamuddin Rais was arrested on Saturday at the protest area, with police also issuing warnings to other participants. &quot;Our country is being governed by clowns and crooks. So I&#39;m here to protest against our prime minister,&quot; said artist Fahmi Reza, holding a poster of a clown-faced Najib.

In a speech uploaded on his website on Friday, Najib said the protesters were &quot;a tool of the opposition&quot;.

&quot;Their movement is deceitful. It is clear that these street protests are in fact the opposition disguised as an independent NGO working to unseat a democratically elected government,&quot; said Najib, who is in Peru to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

Azalina Othman Said, a minister in the Prime Minister&#39;s Department, on Saturday said it was unlawful for any party to try to unseat a democratically-elected government via street protests. Bersih rallies were also held in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching in East Malaysia on Saturday.

&nbsp;

Corruption scandal

Najib has faced criticism since the Wall Street Journal reported last year that around $700 million from state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) was diverted into the personal bank account of the prime minister.

Najib ran into further trouble this year when lawsuits filed by the US&nbsp;Justice Department in July said over $3.5 billion was stolen from 1MDB, which was founded by Najib, and that some of those funds flowed into the accounts of &quot;Malaysian Official 1&quot;, whom US and Malaysian officials have identified as Najib.

Najib has taken steps critics say aim to limit discussion of the scandal, such as sacking a deputy prime minister, replacing the attorney-general and suspending newspapers and blocking websites.

Bersih chair Maria Chin Abdullah -- who was arrested on the eve of the rally -- has been detained under Malaysia&#39;s Security Offences (Special Measures) Act, or SOSMA as it is known, her lawyers said on Saturday.

SOSMA was introduced in 2012 to protect the country from security and extremist threats.

&quot;Sosma has now been used against Bersih when it should only be used against genuine security cases or terrorists,&quot; co-founder of Lawyers for Liberty Eric Paulsen said on Twitter. &quot;Her Sosma detention is clearly made in bad faith &amp; not intended by Parliament.&quot;

Najib retains significant support within UMNO and from the long-ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.

&nbsp;

Tensions

Fears of clashes between Bersih and a pro-Najib group called Red Shirts mounted earlier this week after the latter threatened to target Bersih supporters, though no major clashes were reported on Saturday during simultaneous demonstrations.

The pro-Najib group also rallied on Saturday, and local media reported one Red Shirt was detained for attempting to attack Bersih participants.

A six-week campaign by Bersih ahead of this weekend was marred by several violent confrontations with the Red Shirts, and anonymous death threats were sent to Bersih chair Maria.

Jamal Yunos, an UMNO member and leader of the Red Shirts, was also arrested on Friday before the protests began. He had warned of a repeat of racial riots in 1969 that killed hundreds in clashes between Malays and ethnic Chinese. Ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities formed the bulk of the Bersih rally, similar to last year. 
 
(Reuters)

Last year it was reported that around $700 million from state fund 1MDB was diverted into the Prime Minister's personal bank account

Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters marched in Malaysia's capital on Saturday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Razak over his alleged involvement in a multi-billion dollar misappropriation scandal. Protesters clad in yellow shirts marched through the heart of Kuala Lumpur -- bringing traffic to a standstill in several tourist spots -- to gather in front of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers after an initial plan to assemble at Independence Square was thwarted by police. Turnout was lower than a similar rally last year, with news portal Malaysiakini estimating around 40,000 participants. As many as 200,000 people showed up last year at one point. Turnout for this year's rally may have been hurt by fears of violence and arrests of leaders from the pro-democracy group, Bersih, that organised Saturday's rally. Several opposition leaders were also detained just a day before the demonstration, along with Bersih leaders. Police had said the rally is illegal and that they would not hesitate to use tear gas or water cannon if things got out of hand. State news agency Bernama said about 7,000 policemen will be on duty near the protest areas. Still, spirits were high among those that gathered, with drums and vuvuzelas heard along with speeches, songs and chants by participants calling for a clean Malaysia and people power. Former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad, Najib's fiercest critic, joined protesters in front of the Twin Towers. "We are no longer a democracy, we are known as a kleptocracy. This is the time we work together to bring down this cruel government," said 91-year-old Mahathir. Muhyiddin Yassin -- the former deputy premier who now leads a new party chaired by Mahathir -- was also present, leading the crowds in chants of "Step down Najib!" The demonstration is unlikely to shake the prime minister, though, who has denied wrongdoing and weathered the crisis, consolidating power by cracking down on dissenters and curbing media groups and activists. "We are not here to bring down the country. We love this country! We are not here to tear down the government, we're here to strengthen it," Bersih deputy chair Shahrul Aman Shaari told the crowds gathered at the National Mosque. Another Bersih leader Hishamuddin Rais was arrested on Saturday at the protest area, with police also issuing warnings to other participants. "Our country is being governed by clowns and crooks. So I'm here to protest against our prime minister," said artist Fahmi Reza, holding a poster of a clown-faced Najib. In a speech uploaded on his website on Friday, Najib said the protesters were "a tool of the opposition". "Their movement is deceitful. It is clear that these street protests are in fact the opposition disguised as an independent NGO working to unseat a democratically elected government," said Najib, who is in Peru to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. Azalina Othman Said, a minister in the Prime Minister's Department, on Saturday said it was unlawful for any party to try to unseat a democratically-elected government via street protests. Bersih rallies were also held in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching in East Malaysia on Saturday. Corruption scandal Najib has faced criticism since the Wall Street Journal reported last year that around $700 million from state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) was diverted into the personal bank account of the prime minister. Najib ran into further trouble this year when lawsuits filed by the US Justice Department in July said over $3.5 billion was stolen from 1MDB, which was founded by Najib, and that some of those funds flowed into the accounts of "Malaysian Official 1", whom US and Malaysian officials have identified as Najib. Najib has taken steps critics say aim to limit discussion of the scandal, such as sacking a deputy prime minister, replacing the attorney-general and suspending newspapers and blocking websites. Bersih chair Maria Chin Abdullah -- who was arrested on the eve of the rally -- has been detained under Malaysia's Security Offences (Special Measures) Act, or SOSMA as it is known, her lawyers said on Saturday. SOSMA was introduced in 2012 to protect the country from security and extremist threats. "Sosma has now been used against Bersih when it should only be used against genuine security cases or terrorists," co-founder of Lawyers for Liberty Eric Paulsen said on Twitter. "Her Sosma detention is clearly made in bad faith & not intended by Parliament." Najib retains significant support within UMNO and from the long-ruling Barisan Nasional coalition. Tensions Fears of clashes between Bersih and a pro-Najib group called Red Shirts mounted earlier this week after the latter threatened to target Bersih supporters, though no major clashes were reported on Saturday during simultaneous demonstrations. The pro-Najib group also rallied on Saturday, and local media reported one Red Shirt was detained for attempting to attack Bersih participants. A six-week campaign by Bersih ahead of this weekend was marred by several violent confrontations with the Red Shirts, and anonymous death threats were sent to Bersih chair Maria. Jamal Yunos, an UMNO member and leader of the Red Shirts, was also arrested on Friday before the protests began. He had warned of a repeat of racial riots in 1969 that killed hundreds in clashes between Malays and ethnic Chinese. Ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities formed the bulk of the Bersih rally, similar to last year. (Reuters)

Malaysia: Thousands protest demanding PM Najib's resignation over corruption scandal

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