A student-organised anti-corruption rally in Sabah took a dramatic turn when participants set fire to a caricature of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, drawing condemnation from political leaders. The two-day protest, dubbed Gempur Rasuah 2.0 and led by students from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), concluded on June 21 at Lintasan Deasoka near Gaya Street with the controversial act.
PKR Youth Chief Kamil Munim, who also serves as the Prime Minister’s political secretary at the Ministry of Finance, described the burning of Anwar’s image as not only disrespectful but also counterproductive. He argued that the act reflected the participants’ failure to engage in mature, constructive dialogue and amounted to little more than a publicity stunt designed to provoke rather than inform.
Kamil criticised the protest’s conclusion as crossing a line, stating that such gestures do not qualify as peaceful expression and risked both public safety and the credibility of the cause. He emphasised that effective activism should rely on reasoned discourse rather than sensational displays, and that the burning of effigies—regardless of the figure depicted—undermines the spirit of democratic engagement.
Despite the attention garnered by the protest, Kamil asserted that the symbolism lacked depth and failed to articulate any coherent demands or solutions. He called on activists to move beyond provocative gestures and to contribute meaningfully to national discourse with clear arguments and respectful methods.
The protesters, however, claimed that the burning was a reflection of mounting frustration over what they perceived as Anwar’s inadequate response to corruption issues in Sabah. According to their spokesperson, the act symbolised growing public disillusionment with the government's handling of such matters.
While the rally sought to highlight corruption concerns, the focus quickly shifted to the burning incident, sparking widespread debate over the boundaries of protest in a democratic society. The backlash, particularly from government figures, underscores the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respect for public figures.
The incident has reignited discussions on protest ethics and the need for civil engagement that prioritises both impact and integrity, especially when addressing national concerns.
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