CIJ concurs with RSF's observation that the repressive licensing regime and other laws effectively prevent the coverage of public interests issues. We also note with concern that important issues such as corruption and good governance are deliberately given a racial or religious spin as to make discussions illegal and dangerous. The action taken against Malaysiakini for example for reporting the cowhead protest and the Home Minister's statement defending the protesters, reminds Malaysians that their government is still resistant to the practice of press freedom . While the Minister, Hishamuddin Hussien announced in June that various restrictive laws will be reviewed, CIJ notes disappointingly that no further plan has been unveiled so far.

The lack of actual action renders hollow the Prime Minister's pronouncement of allowing greater openness as a means to achieve greater national unity, or the 1Malaysia plan as he dubs it. The RSF index confirms the maintenance of status quo and the authority's dismal record in protecting Malaysians their right to press freedom and information.

CIJ urges, as the first concrete step, to set up a multi-party parliamentary select committee on media law reform to collect public feedback and consultation, with the view of repealing restrictive laws and regulations that impact on freedom of information. 

The Centre for Independent Journalism, Malaysia (CIJ) is a non-profit organisation that aspires for a society that is democratic, just and free where all people will enjoy free media and the freedom to express, seek, and impart information.

Issued by

Gayathry Venkiteswaran
Executive Director

For more information, please contact Wai Fong at 03 40230772