SUBANG, Dec 21 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged enforcement authorities to exercise restraint and avoid taking heavy-handed action against individuals critical of the government.

Responding to the recent arrest of activist and graphic artist Fahmi Reza, Anwar expressed disapproval, describing the move as "unnecessary”.

"Cyberbullying, pornography, or abusive behaviour should be punished. I was deeply upset reading about the Indian girl who died due to cyberbullying.

"However, in cases like Fahmi Reza’s, I want to tell the MACC (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission) and police: Just leave it, lah,” he said.

Anwar noted that criticism targeting the monarchy was particularly sensitive.

"If it involves royalty, they don’t want it because they’re not part of the political game and can’t defend themselves.

"Insults, especially on racial or religious grounds, can spark unrest. For instance, people now ask if everything is halal — like this water bottle or coffee. I haven’t checked if it’s halal or not,” he quipped, gesturing at items on the table before him.

The prime minister stressed that law enforcement agencies must prioritise maintaining unity.

"I’ve been informed the police initially didn’t plan to question him (Fahmi) but acted after he challenged them.

"I want to reiterate: criticising the government or me is fine, but inciting racial or religious tensions is unacceptable and could lead to disunity,” he said during a press briefing here, today.

Fahmi is under investigation for a social media post labelling newly appointed Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman as the state’s "number one corruptor.”

Police confirmed that the investigation followed a report filed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

The case is being probed under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA), and Section 504 of the Penal Code.