Deputy Home Minister Nur Jazlan Mohamed has denied that travel bans would be imposed on government critics.

This was after The Star on Wednesday reported that the Immigration Department had made an internal ruling to bar those who criticised the government from travelling overseas.

Nur Jazlan said the travel ban is only against those who violated the federal constitution, according to a report in Oriental Daily.

“This includes those who are a threat to national security or have committed acts that violates the federal constitution - these are the legal basis that will get them barred from travelling overseas,” he was quoted as saying.

He said among the examples were those who are seditious or incite racial and religious hatred.

Nur Jazlan added that the Immigration Department director-general is empowered to do so and had also facilitated authorities such as the police and Inland Revenue Board to impose travel bans.

“A passport issued by the Immigration Department is a privilege, not a right,” he was quoted as saying.

However, Nur Jazlan said anyone who are unhappy with their travel ban can challenge the matter in court.