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POLICE in Pahang have arrested a student of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah over social media posts allegedly touching on sensitive issues of religion, race and royalty, as authorities intensify action against content deemed inflammatory.
Pahang police chief Yahaya Othman said the male student was detained in the early hours of the morning to assist with investigations, following the circulation of posts said to include material insulting Prophet Muhammad.
"We will apply for a remand order against the student today," he said in a statement.
The case is being investigated under Section 295 of the Penal Code for insulting religion, an offence punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine upon conviction.
The suspect is also being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the improper use of network facilities to transmit content that is offensive, abusive, threatening, harassing or obscene.
A conviction under that provision carries a potential sentence of up to one year’s imprisonment and a fine of up to RM50,000, or both.
The arrest follows the rapid spread of provocative material on social media platforms since yesterday, triggering public concern and calls for firm action.
Separately, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang urged the public to cease disseminating hateful and irresponsible content online, warning that the government would not compromise on matters involving religious and racial sensitivities.
“I view seriously the dissemination of content on social media through the account of a Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) student that touches on religious issues and insults Islam, potentially undermining public harmony.
“Religion should not be made a subject of mockery or provocation, as such acts constitute an offence and can spark tension within our plural society,” he said in a statement.
Aaron stressed that Malaysia’s religious diversity is an asset that must be safeguarded rather than exploited for narrow interests.
He confirmed that investigations are under way and that firm action would be taken under the Universities and University Colleges (Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah) (Student Discipline) Rules 2024.
“I urge Malaysians to act maturely and responsibly on social media and to always uphold the values of respect and tolerance for the sake of the nation’s peace,” he said.
The authorities have reiterated their commitment to preserving interfaith and inter-ethnic harmony, warning that any attempt to incite tension through religious provocation will be dealt with in accordance with the law. - February 25, 2026