| Respect editorial independence and media freedom |
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| Monday, 19 March 2007 | |
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The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) is alarmed at the Ministry of Internal Security's public admission that it routinely interferes with editorial independence of mainstream media. On March 17, the national news agency BERNAMA quoted the deputy internal security minister Fu Ah Kiow who said that he sometimes calls up editors to "remind the media concerned when sensitive issues are published". The deputy minister reportedly made the statement during a dinner function with the media. On the same day online news site Malaysiakini.com also reported that the Ministry sent a circular to all mainstream press warning them not to quote "anti-government articles" from blogs and online portals. According to Malaysiakini.com, the letter dated 13 March warned newspapers that they could undermine national stability by publishing speculative articles from Internet. The papers were also reminded of the Printing Presses and Publication Act (PPPA) and that they must follow the directives from the ministry. Under the PPPA, the internal security minister can revoke the yearly publication permit of a newspaper anytime. Deputy Minister Fu Ah Kiow could not be reached for comment while his aide Alex Teh Yeow Ming declined when contacted by CIJ. By restricting editorial independence, the government is increasingly moving away from its goal of openness and transparency. It is now seen to be hiding something and is restricting Malaysians who are without Internet access from getting the information. The deputy minister's admission shows the serious depth of government's disregard to media freedom at the expense of the public. CIJ urges the government to repeal the (PPPA) and respect editorial independence as one of the component of people's right to freedom of expression. Imposing secrecy and media blackout will cause the government to lose its credibility and the trust of the people. 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. Issued by Sonia Randhawa Executive Director For more information please call Advocacy Officer Wai Fong at 03 4023 0772 |
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