From 2022 to August 2025, ARTICLE 19 documented several key concerning cases in which individuals were prosecuted for allegedly blasphemous speech. Malaysian authorities have continued to investigate and charge individuals under blasphemy provisions, particularly Section 298 of the Penal Code, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA), and Section 7(1) of the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (PPPA). These cases are a part of a long-standing practice by successive Malaysian governments in silencing expression deemed blasphemous, particularly expression that relates to Islam, the majority religion in the country.
In January 2021, ARTICLE 19 published a briefing paper highlighting the legal framework used to target allegedly blasphemous expression. The briefing paper also sets out international standards relating to the crime of blasphemy and made several recommendations to the government of Malaysia, including explicit calls to repeal legislation out of step with international law and standards. In 2022, ARTICLE 19 issued an update, with its findings focused on several criminal charges brought against two comedians in July.
This document is the second update to the 2021 briefing paper, aimed at setting out recent cases of concern, trends, and reiterating the international standards to which Malaysia is bound. In particular, ARTICLE 19 found that artistic expressions continue to be restricted, with artists or filmmakers who were initially investigated often having their cases escalated to trial or sentenced by the relevant authority. At least three books related to Islam were banned and objects featuring designs of the “Kabaa” or the word “Allah” were deemed offensive to the Muslim religion. Most of the cases identified either stemmed from photos, videos, or comments posted online. Several cases, including the ones involving Mentega Terbang, KK Mart and Vern’s Holdings, involved threats or attacks from vigilantes or public figures that further fuelled hatred and hostility in Malaysia.
ARTICLE 19 reiterates that blasphemy laws promote intolerance and it is imperative that the Government commits to reforming its legal framework and immediately cease investigation and prosecution of those exercising their right to freedom of expression.