Muhammad Firdaus, previously fined for reckless driving, now penalized for threatening media outside court

Tensions ran high outside the Johor Bahru court complex as a man already facing legal proceedings lashed out at press photographers, leading to a fresh criminal charge.

Repeat Offender Faces New Penalty

Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah, 50, appeared at the Johor Bahru Magistrate’s Court on June 25, 2025, to face charges of mischief and reckless driving. But before his initial hearing concluded, he threatened three press photographers outside the court building, prompting police action and a fresh charge of criminal intimidation.

Incident Caught on Camera

The confrontation occurred around 9am as Firdaus, escorted by traffic police, saw photographers capturing his arrival. Enraged, he threatened to assault the media, a moment captured on video by TV3 and other outlets. All three victims—working for TV3, Berita Harian, and Oriental Daily—filed police reports, citing fear for their safety.

Immediate Police Action and Arrest

According to Johor Bahru South police chief ACP Raub Selamat, Firdaus was arrested the following morning in Bandar Baru Uda by officers from the criminal investigation division. Investigations confirmed the threat through video evidence, which played a crucial role in pursuing charges under Section 506 of the Penal Code.

Court Ruling and Sentencing

On June 26, Firdaus pleaded guilty to the intimidation charge before Magistrate Nabilah Nizam. He was fined RM3,000 or would face four months in prison if he failed to pay. The court also noted his prior convictions from the day before, RM7,000 for mischief and RM3,000 for reckless driving. All fines were settled by the accused.

Prosecution Demands Accountability

Deputy Public Prosecutor R. Nevina emphasized that journalists were performing their duties and that any form of threat must be met with serious consequences. Firdaus, unrepresented in court, appealed for leniency, citing unemployment and a need to support his wife and seven children.

Media Protection a Top Priority

ACP Raub stressed that threats against media personnel will not be tolerated. “This is to ensure that the safety and freedom of the media are protected in line with their role in conveying information to the public,” he said.

This incident underscores Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom and deterring intimidation at legal venues. For neighboring Indonesia and Singapore—where court transparency and journalistic safety are equally vital—this case is a stark reminder of the importance of enforcing respect for the media amidst rising legal tensions.

Sources: Free Malaysia Today (2025) , Malay Mail (2025)

Keywords: Muhammad Firdaus, Johor Bahru Court, Criminal Intimidation, Media Threat, Reckless Driving, Police Statement