Update on charges against Lena Hendry: Our lawyers filed an application in High Court last year to strike out the charges against Lena Hendry. The case now will be heard in High Court on the 6th of February. Please show your support by attending the hearing Date: 6th February 2013 Time: 9am Place: Duta High Court Specific Court: KL Criminal High Court 2 Judge: Kamardin Hashim J Background: Lena Hendry was charged for an offence under the Film Censorship Act 2002, in connection with the screening of a video which was not vetted and approved by the Film Censorship Board of Malaysia. If convicted, she faces the sentence of a ‘…fine of not less than five thousand ringgit and not more than thirty thousand ringgit or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both…’ She is charged under Section 6 of the Act that makes it an offence to, amongst others, to produce, manufacture, have in one’s possession, circulate, distribute and display such film or film-publicity material which has not been approved by the Board. This may include video material ranging from family videos, videos of political and human rights material including recordings of forums and speeches, videos about citizen rights including the right to free and fair elections or worker rights, and even videos about rights violations in other countries The charging of Lena Hendry in September 2013 by the Malaysia government is seen as an effort to limit access to information and alternative views particularly those highlighting human rights violations and alternative perspectives. This violates individual and civil society and public rights to information, freedom of expression and opinion. If the screening and usage of such material incites a criminal act, or violates another person’s rights, there are existing laws to address this. There is no requirement for any prior government approval or ‘censorship’. Please support by coming for the trial and your support will show that freedom of expression can never be suppressed in Malaysia and the fight for it will continue.
Posted on: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 04:24:03 +0000