Kijal state assemblyman Datuk Razali Idris withdrew his appeal against a conviction and RM2,000 fine at the High Court on May 15, 2026, his lawyer confirmed in court [1, 2, 3].
Razali was found guilty of making inflammatory statements during a speech at the Kemaman By-Election Machinery Launching Ceremony on November 10, 2023, between 9:30 pm and 11:30 pm at Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman, Terengganu [1, 2, 3]. The offence was charged under Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948 [1, 2, 3].
On November 24, 2023, Razali requested to be tried on charges alleging the court case outcome was controlled by the government [1, 2, 3]. The Sessions Court on January 5, 2026, fined him RM2,000 and ordered three months’ imprisonment if the fine was not paid [1, 2, 3]. Razali has already paid the fine [1, 2, 3]. During the appeal withdrawal, his lawyer told the court, "That's right, Your Honour, my client is aware of that" [1].
Terengganu State Assembly Speaker Datuk Mohd Nor Hamzah said Razali’s seat as Kijal assemblyman remains secure. He explained, "...a representative can be disqualified if he is sentenced to imprisonment for more than 12 months or fined more than RM2,000. However, in this case, the court imposed a fine of exactly RM2,000 and not exceeding that amount. Razali’s position as Kijal assemblyman stays and there will be no automatic vacancy of the seat" [3]. This statement was made on May 16, 2026.
With his appeal withdrawn and fine paid, Razali’s legal penalties are concluded unless further action arises. The Terengganu State Assembly Speaker's confirmation ensures Razali retains his seat in the assembly.
