Chinese-Muslim Malaysian TikToker Rayyan Wong was arrested by PDRM after claiming the King, Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVII Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, and Prime Minister, Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim dined at a non-Halal eater in Johor.
Inspector-General Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said the detention was made following a report filed by an officer from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) regarding the uploaded viral content.
“At 4:30 PM yesterday (December 18), the complainant saw a statement posted by the account owner @ryanwong_5845 on TikTok.”
“The content contained an offensive statement believed to be made with the intention of hurting feelings, belittling, and insulting the Royal Institution in order to incite hatred and provoke the Royal Institution,” Razarudin told the media.
PDRM also confiscated a Galaxy Z Flip 5 smartphone for investigation purposes, and the matter is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Razarudin also said PDRM will keep the public updated about the case from time to time.
Earlier, following criticism from social media users, Rayyan posted an apology video with evidence to show that the eatery is, indeed, Halal-certified. The TikToker also said he would be taking a hiatus from social media for the sake of his mental health.
“I stand with Rayyan Wong”
Social media users, particularly those who are on board with what Rayyan Wong had to say about the dine-in experience earlier showed solidarity and support online following the news of his arrest.
A netizen said she was impressed with Rayyan who had just embraced Islam but has more knowledge than others.
“He wasn’t accusing, he was merely spilling truths. He apologised because he knew where he stood and had no right to reprimand the country’s leaders.”
“I stand with Rayyan Wong on this. He protects what’s right and rejects what’s wrong.”
“Where is the Mufti and the Ministry of Religious Department? Have you all gone mute now?”
“Let’s stay away from the cruel regime of the government.”
Another netizen insisted that Rayyan was merely saying the right things, and translating the Chinese words on the wall of the restaurant to Malay.
“He did not even mention any name.”
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