Former Deputy Law Minister Ramkarpal Singh has called for an investigation into UMNO Youth chief Dr. Akmal Saleh, questioning his apparent “immunity” from prosecution following controversial remarks related to a national flag incident.
During a debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan in the Dewan Rakyat, Ramkarpal (PH-Bukit Gelugor) stated that Akmal had issued several “extreme and unacceptable” statements with divisive, racial undertones that could threaten public order. “Yet, until now, there has been no action taken by the authorities against Akmal,” he said.
“My question is, why? Does he have immunity or privilege from investigation or prosecution?”
Ramkarpal confirmed that multiple police reports have been lodged against the firebrand politician and suggested several potential offenses, including sedition, criminal intimidation, intentional insult to provoke a breach of the peace, and statements conducing to public mischief.
He also condemned Akmal’s “ultimatum” to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) to charge the individual involved within a set timeframe, calling it inappropriate and a source of undue pressure on the investigation. “Will it issue a statement warning Akmal not to interfere in the investigation? If not, why is action not being taken when it is clear that action should be immediate?” he asked, urging the relevant ministry to provide an urgent response.
Ramkarpal argued that swift action is necessary to uphold the rule of law and send a clear message that no one, regardless of political position, is above the law.
The controversy began when Akmal threatened to stage a protest at a Penang hardware shop after its 59-year-old owner mistakenly hoisted the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian flag) upside down. The owner quickly rectified the error. Akmal had threatened to “give a class to teach this ‘ah pek’ how to correctly put up a flag” if the owner was not charged by Thursday. Police have since advised against the protest, noting that the issue has been resolved.
