CIJ opposes ban on TV program, Internet PDF Print E-mail
Monday, 26 February 2007
The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) condemns the government's continued restrictions on citizen's right to freedom of expression. In recent weeks, the government imposed a ban order on the screening of an entertainment program "Sensasi" by a private television station, TV3.  It has also issued a threat against publishing news and images over the Internet that could potentially harm national security.

National news agency, Bernama quoted on Feb 25 deputy internal security minister Fu Ah Kiow as warning that the government will take action against those found "circulating news or pictures that can pose a threat to public safety". The threat came after pictures of local illegal motorbike racers, or Mat Rempit, were found online.

An actress's comment on the Prophet Muhammad's first wife in a live television program on Jan 30 triggered a ban by the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for both live or recorded format, effective Feb 23. In a press statement by the MCMC, it stated that the values portrayed were against Islam Hadhari, or civilizational Islam propounded by the Prime Minister.

CIJ is concerned that the government is stepping up control over differing viewpoints, by reining in tighter control over cyberspace discussion and the broadcast media. This latest threat came amid defamation suits against two bloggers by the government-controlled national daily, New Straits Times. Similarly, censuring the Malay-language program "Sensasi", in the name of protecting religious sanctity reinforces the belief that opposing views and interpretations are not welcomed in this society.

CIJ urges the government to lift the ban of the program, stop any threat and action against Internet users and set up a Parliamentary Select Committee on Freedom of Expression. It is high time that the government translates its rhetoric on Islam Hadhari into action and uphold its Constitutional guarantee on freedom of expression.

The Centre for Independent Journalism, Malaysia (CIJ) is a media organization that aims to improve current Malaysian journalism practice and independence through advocacy, research and analysis, training and practical work. Started in 2001, CIJ has initiated various projects in developing grassroots communications skills through training, infrastructural support and direct action.

Ends

Issued by

Sonia Randhawa
Executive Director

For more information please contact Wai Fong at 03 4023 0772

 
< Prev   Next >
[ Back ]