THE Chief of the Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY), Woo Kah Leong, has been questioned by police over a social media post featuring a caricature of Perak State Opposition Leader, Razman Zakaria, depicted as a clown.
The investigation into Woo, who also serves as Perak’s Executive Councillor for Domestic Trade, Consumer Affairs and New Villages, was initiated after a police report was lodged against the image, which allegedly touched on sensitivities of certain parties.
His lawyer, Syahredzan Johan, said that two investigating officers from the Gerik District Police Headquarters recorded Woo’s statement at his office in the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building on Monday morning.
"Initially, he was requested to present himself in Gerik, but after discussions, the police agreed to come here to facilitate the process. We appreciate their cooperation in this matter," said Syahredzan during a press conference at Wisma DAP Perak.
"Questions were asked and fully answered. We extended full cooperation because we understand that an investigation must be conducted."
During the investigation, police also seized Woo’s iPhone and SIM card for further examination.
"We handed them over without resistance. We do not wish to cause any inconvenience as we understand the police are simply performing their duties," he added.
Syahredzan, who is also the National Vice Chairman of DAP, questioned the necessity of the police report in the first place.
"This matter should not have escalated to a police complaint as it was merely an expression of dissatisfaction over a social media post."
Woo, who is also the State Assemblyman for Pasir Bedamar, described the report lodged against him as an unhealthy political culture that stifles freedom of expression.
"Political satire, including caricature, is not a personal attack. It is a form of public scrutiny," he said.
"As a politician, I defend everyone’s right to criticise me, and at the same time, I reserve the right to respond without remaining silent."
Acting Gerik District Police Chief, Deputy Superintendent Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah, confirmed that Woo’s statement had been recorded as part of ongoing investigations.
“Yes, we have recorded the statement. It is part of the investigation process,” he said briefly when contacted.
Razman had earlier demanded a public apology from Woo during the Perak State Assembly sitting over what he claimed was a provocative post uploaded on 10 April.
However, Woo defended the post, maintaining that the caricature was a form of satire grounded in facts, which he argued is a legitimate facet of democratic expression. - June 2, 2025
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