Muhyiddin Yassin Charged with Sedition in Malaysia

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has been charged with sedition for allegedly questioning the integrity of the former king, Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah, during a political speech. Muhyiddin, who served from 2020 to 2021, pleaded not guilty in a Kelantan court, claiming his remarks were factual and supported by a majority of lawmakers. The charges stem from his comments made on August 14, where he criticized the king for not inviting him to form a government after the 2022 elections, which resulted in a hung Parliament. If convicted, Muhyiddin faces up to three years in prison and a fine under the colonial-era Sedition Act. His situation reflects the ongoing tension between free speech and respect for the monarchy in Malaysia, where negative comments about royalty can lead to legal repercussions. Additionally, he is facing separate corruption and money laundering allegations, which he asserts are politically motivated.