Story by Christopher Tan
CARTOONIST Zunar has questioned the alleged police inaction over a cartoon and photography exhibition held during a general assembly of a political party at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) in Kuala Lumpur recently.
“Why was there no action taken on the cartoonist who drew the cartoons displayed at the exhibition in PWTC?
“In November last year, my artworks were damaged by some protesters and I had to call off my exhibition at Komtar. I had to oblige as they were violent.
“I tried to hold another exhibition at Beach Street in September this year. The same group warned me that they would come for me again if I hold the exhibition,” Zunar told a press conference at Komtar on Dec 6.
Zunar, whose real name is Zulkiflee SM Anwar Ulhaque, reminded artists to observed artistic etiquette.
“We must not touch on racial and religious matters in our work as it can incite anger among the community,” he said.
Zunar added the photography exhibition in PWTC also showcased photoshopped graphics.
“I was arrested and investigated in March 2015 under the Communications and Multimedia Act for photo editing. Similarly, other leaders like Batu MP Tian Chua and Subang MP R. Sivarasa were also investigated for photo editing.
“Why was no one investigated under the same law and principle in the PWTC issue? Why was there a double standard?
“Are there two sets of laws in Malaysia?” he questioned.
Zunar also expressed his concerns for artists who spoke out about Malaysia.