The Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) recently removed a portrait of the late Karpal Singh, citing “sensitive nature” as the reason.
The tribute was among 33 art pieces put on display at the Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Walk cultural event in Johor Bahru.
The portrait of the late Bukit Gelugor MP, who passed away in an accident on April 17, suddenly went missing.
Initially, DAP Senai state assembly person Wong Shu Qi first thought that the painting was stolen by some party supporters. However, MBJB later admitted that they had removed the portrait.
DAP is demanding that MBJB return the painting to the exhibition, adding that this amounted to theft and a violation of freedom of expression.
DAP Johor Jaya state rep Liow Cai Tung said the council should be more open-minded and liberal towards such art works.
MBJB was quoted saying that the public had complained about the painting as Karpal Singh was not a Johor-based politician and exhibiting his portrait could have triggered sensitive political issues.
What do you think of this?
