Anwar Ibrahim final appeal

  • Media release

Australia is disappointed by the decision of the Malaysian Federal Court to dismiss Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim's final appeal against the charge of sodomy, which was handed down today.

We are deeply concerned by the severity of the sentence and we have made our concerns known to the Malaysian Government.

Australia has welcomed Prime Minister Najib's recent messages about moderation and tolerance.

As a friend of Malaysia, Australia encourages the Malaysian Government to consider the impact of recent decisions, including the Anwar verdict and the retention of the Sedition Act, on its international standing and its commitment to human rights.

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