Vernacular schools: Investigation paper opened against National Council of Professors fellow
An investigation paper has been opened against Professor Emeritus Datuk Teo Kok Seong, who is a fellow with the National Council of Professors, following his controversial statement regarding vernacular schools recently.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail says the investigation is conducted under Section 505 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
He says vernacular schools in Malaysia have been a subject of debates for decades, adding that the system has its advantages and disadvantages.
Saifuddin cites the increasing number of Malay students who choose to study in such schools of late as an example of the attraction of vernacular schools.
“That’s also a fact... when there is criticism against it (vernacular schools), there is also a large number choosing (to attend vernacular schools),” he said winding up the debate on the Motion of Thanks for the Royal Address for his ministry in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
Teo has been accused of making racist statements through a TikTok video, claiming that Chinese national-type schools spread racial sentiments against Malays.
During the debate, Teresa Kok (DAP-Seputeh) urged the police to investigate Teo regarding the matter, and also questioned why he was not investigated just as how the police had investigated DAP leaders such as Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang and Tony Pua.
Saifuddin said an inquiry paper against Lim had been sent to the Attorney General, while the investigation paper related to the report against Pua would be submitted to the Attorney General today.
He also confirmed that a total of 63 police reports had been received regarding the statements made by Bozz Jebat, whose real name is Zool Amali Husin, for allegedly insulting Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on YouTube.
“Police have initiated an investigation under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for improper use of network facilities or network service.
“This case is still under police investigation,” he said.
On the current status of the investigation paper on the case of Teoh Beng Hock, who was found dead on July 16, 2009, Saifuddin said it is now with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) for further action. — Bernama