On June 21, during the Gempur Rasuah 2.0 rally in Sabah, protesters set fire to a caricature of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, alongside a bold message that read, “MADANI protector of Sabah corruption.”

UMNO Youth Chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh later slammed the students involved, calling their actions “cowardly and stupid”.

“Thanks for having the guts to face the students”

In response to Akmal’s criticisms, one of the students fired back, saying he had already contacted Akmal to arrange an open debate to discuss the issue further.

Previously, WORLD OF BUZZ reported that the group had shared a screenshot of his conversation with Akmal, showing both parties had agreed to a debate scheduled for today (July 1) at Rumah @mandiri.my in Petaling Jaya.

“Now, the UMNO Youth Chief wants to play hero? We’ve reached out to brother Akmal to set up an open debate to settle this. So, is it the student who’s a coward, or the politician who’s the idiot? Thanks to brother Akmal for having the guts to face the students,” the student wrote.

“We’re prepared to give Akmal the space he needs”

In a statement, the student activist group revealed that they were informed about the critical condition of Akmal’s father, which led to the debate being put on hold until further notice.

“We extend our condolences and sympathies to him and his family during this difficult time. The Secretariat of Rakyat Benci Rasuah 2.0 (SRBR) calls on the public to join us in praying for strength and ease for Saudara Akmal’s family as they navigate this challenging period,” they said.

Out of respect for the situation, the group stated that they are prepared to give Akmal the space he needs to focus on his family and find peace during this time.

As of now, they have not received any official confirmation from Akmal on whether the planned debate will proceed or remain postponed.

“SRBR remains committed to ensuring that all discourse and debates are conducted in a respectful, ethical, and responsible manner,” they concluded.

Stay tuned for more updates!