Update: Fahmi Reza has been sentenced to one month in prison and a fine of RM30,000 (&7,700).

Fahmi Reza is a self-taught graphic designer from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia who was charged on June 6, 2016 with “violating multimedia laws” regarding a drawing of Prime Minister Najib Razak as a clown. Fahmi began designing posters for social change in 2002. Fahmi is known for designing nonpartisan posters and books which are critical of corruption in all its forms. He also does pro bono work for organizations whose message he supports.

Fahmi Reza’s work focuses on democracy, human rights, and urban issues in his native Kuala Lumpur.

“I call myself an author, because maybe I don’t see myself as an artist,” Fahmi once reflected on his work. “For me, it’s not about me. At the centre of my work is the message. The message is most important, the medium is just a tool to communicate the idea to the audience.”

Fahmi Reza was arrested on June 4, 2016 along with three other activists for selling t-shirts saying “Kita Semua Penghasut” (“We Are All Guilty of Sedition”) at an alternative book festival in Kuala Lumpur. The other activists were released without charge though one, Lew Pik-Svonn, had her car and phone confiscated. Two days later Fahmi was charged but released on bail, facing a potential year in prison and MR 50,000 fine.

Fahmi defiantly said that new t-shirts can be printed and new posters made. “There comes a time when we are forced to rid ourselves of fear and rise up against oppression, as it can inspire courage in others, to likewise get up and fight,” he said upon receiving his sentence.

No date has been set for Fahmi Reza’s trial, but he faces a potential year in prison and MR 50,000 ($12,000 USD) fine.