We are shocked to learn that the popular call-in programme 'The Mic Is On, With Love, Without Obstacles' on the state-run radio station AiFM (Chinese) has been ordered to undergo 're- organisation' effectively meaning its termination on July 3.
The phone-in session where callers and the DJs discuss current issues had already been terminated since June 26. This is the third case of political intervention in media freedom, the other two being the resignation of China Press' two editors in the nude squats case and the suspension of Sarawak Tribune in the prophet caricatures case early this year.
We, the undersigned civil society groups, have long been fighting for social reform. For the love of free speech and multi-culturalism, we thus express our
opposition against the political intervention in this programme, hoping to see that 'the mic will remain on' to provide a channel for citizens to freely and fearlessly discuss matters that concern them. The spirit of public discussion and debate must be kept alive.
Now that 'the mic is off', the programme has been playing only its interesting slots from the past. On June 27, the DJ played the song 'Silence is golden' and we all shared in the sorrow. A channel where ordinary citizens can speak freely must not be closed by an order from above.
Rumour has it that the programme's termination has been ordered by the Information Ministry on allegations it touched on taboo issues. However, the ministry has yet to publicly explain its decision. This is completely against the principle of transparency so essential to a democracy. We would like to believe that the government sincerely wishes to hear the truth but such a wish must translate into genuine reform. At the very least, the citizens' right to speak up must be protected.
In the past, 'The Mic Is On' had discussed various important issues concerning civil liberty and public affairs. Most commendably, it has in the past polled public opinion on the controversial language switch policy (the teaching of Mathematics and Science in English). The last topic of discussion just before its termination was about the Education Ministry's decision to have larger classes (up to 45 pupils) in Chinese primary schools which are suffering chronic shortages of qualified teachers.
Intolerant of public opinion, the ruling coalition is now apparently abusing its power to 'kill' this programme. State-run radio stations are now effectively treated as party organs, denying the public their right to use public resources for discussion of public issues and the government's policies.
Only through a free exchange of ideas and information can the people's wisdom and culture flourish. Without freedom of expression, there will be no social reform, no independent media, and no room for discussion and solution of problems related to human rights and mother-tongue education. Politicians must not ignore public opinion or they will eventually be deserted by the people.
Malaysia's broadcasting and printed media operate under tremendous political pressure and within limited breathing space. It is high time for the ruling coalition and opposition parties to join forces for the repeal of the Communications and Multimedia Act, the Printing Presses and Publications Act, the Official Secrets Act and other legislation that stifle media freedom.
Private broadcasting outlets must be allowed to operate and compete freely, whereas state-run television and radio stations should be transformed into public institutions free from partisan interests. Towards promoting the independence and public character of media, Parliament must appoint a select committee on media law reform which should carry out extensive consultation with interested parties.
We therefore appeal for the following actions:
- That the information minister withdraw the decision to terminate or 're-organise' 'The Mic Is On' radio programme and provide an explanation on developments leading up to this issue.
We the undersigned:
- Writers Alliance for Media Independence (Wami)