KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 — Controversial cartoonist and graphic artist Fahmi Reza has been found guilty by the Ipoh Sessions Court for posting  a clown sketch of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak online.

In a Facebook post today, Fahmi said: "I have been found guilty for uploading a clown satire on Facebook.

"Punishment: One month imprisonment and a fine of RM30,000.”

Fahmi was charged for uploading false communication content on his Facebook page with the intention to offend other parties on February 8, 2016.

It was reported that the content was then viewed at a commercial address — Seraya Sdn Bhd, Batu 3, Jalan Jelapang, Ipoh on the same date.  

He was convicted under Section 233(1)(a) of the Multimedia and Communications Act 1998 with the penalty being a maximum fine up to RM50,000, one year imprisonment or both.

Fahmi’s lawyer, Syahredzan Johan told Malay Mail they will appeal against the decision by Judge Norhashima Khalid by today.

"The judge did not give any grounds for her decision. She just said we failed to raise any reasonable doubts and therefore the offense was proven against Fahmi.

"However, a stay was granted and Fahmi doesn’t have to go to jail but he has paid the RM30,000,” Syahredzan said.