Kuala Lumpur: Repeated threats by controversial businessman Albert Tei that he might “jump from the KLCC bridge at the Petronas Twin Towers” warrants investigation for attempted suicide, said Gerakan Kuasa Rakyat Malaysia (G57) Chairman Datuk Zulkarnain Mahdar.
He said the remarks cannot be treated lightly but as clear intention to commit suicide under Section 309 of the Penal Code.
In the TikTok video clip, Tei is seen standing before the Twin Towers and suggesting he is ready to commit suicide if proven wrong that money allegedly given by him – but which he has not admitted – to certain politicians to persuade Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor to lift the mining ban on companies supposedly linked to him – were not political donations.
Tei said this can be verified by producing the respective party accounts. He also challenged the State Government to prove that the companies issued prospective licences are actually linked to him.
Zulkarnain said the law provides for imprisonment up to one year, a fine, or both, for anyone who openly demonstrates an intention to harm themselves.
He said such intentions should also not be shared on social media.
“The authorities must act when someone posts statements about self-harm. This is not an emotional matter, it is a legal and social responsibility,” he said.
He noted that the statements could fall under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 if they are deemed offensive, frightening, or disruptive to public order.
“Social media should not be used as a platform for threats to gain attention.”
Zulkarnain said it is also possible that Tei needs psychiatric help or counselling. “It shows he is undergoing serious emotional stress that requires professional intervention.
“They are clear signs of someone who is instable,” he said.
He said making suicide threats is not freedom of expression. “We must not normalise stunts like this for political attention. Strict action is needed to send a clear message and ensure the person does not carry out the threat.”
