Mumbai-based Muslim preacher and Tokoh Maal Hijrah awardee planned tour has sparked debate on the limits of free speech. Barred from Canada and the UK, Zakir says that his detractors have quoted him out of context. Local organisers defend his right to speak saying he is a much sort after speaker who is a voice of moderation. Without engaging with the allegations made against him, how do we understand the legal framework in which any discussion of “freedom of speech” in Malaysia is conducted.