Rights groups condemned the sentence and accused Malaysia of using colonial-era law to stifle free speech.

Mr Adli was charged after urging people “go to the streets to seize back our power” at a meeting following elections.

At least 14 people including MPs, academics and a journalist have been charged under the Sedition Act since last year.

Human Rights Watch warned the case showed the danger of the Act.

“It is so vague it can be used to criminalise any sort of speech government deems offensive,” said deputy Asia director Phil Robertson.

Prime Minister Najib Razak said last year the government planned to abolish the Act, which was introduced in 1949 during British colonial rule.
But he has backtracked after his ruling coalition’s poor performance in elections.