Justice for Zara Rally Marred by Controversial Speech, Police Report Lodged

2 September 2025

SANDAKAN : The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has been urged to take action against a participant of the Justice for Zara Solidarity Gathering held in Tawau last Sunday.

Chairman of the Sandakan Arts and Writers Association, Sante Villiamon, said the participant had made seditious remarks during the gathering.

“We were informed that the individual is a student of a local higher learning institution, and from video recordings, it is evident that he made certain remarks about the Head of State.

This matter cannot be left unchecked as it is seditious and amounts to a threat against the Head of State… this is extremely serious,” she said.

Due to the seriousness of the matter, Sante has also lodged a police report at the Sandakan police station.

Sante said the participant’s actions were deeply disappointing, as the solidarity gathering was intended to demand justice for the late Zara Qairina, and not to be used as a platform for incitement.

“He must be held accountable for his words, and we hope the higher learning institution where he studies will also take this matter seriously."

"We respect the right to freedom of speech, but that does not mean one can speak carelessly and challenge the institution of the Head of State,” she stressed.