COMMENT | Stop harassing journalists

COMMENT | I am urging the police not to proceed in calling three journalists from Malaysiakini over an article claiming that Bukit Aman is planning a major reshuffle of its top leadership.

By doing so, the police are seen as harassing journalists trying to do their work. It reflects badly on the image of the police and gives an impression that the force “cannot be touched” at whatever cost.

Writing speculative pieces is nothing new in journalism. Journalists speculate about almost everything including possible reshuffle in the cabinet line-up or leadership changes in corporations.

I personally do not find the piece in Malaysiakini deemed malicious or defamatory. I believe with honesty that the police are still held with respect and high esteem and that the people care about them.

Thus the interest in police matters probably propelled the journalists to come out with the story. I take it that it is in fact a compliment to the force.

I find it totally unacceptable that a “harmless” report would warrant such retaliation from the police. Summoning members of the media over such a report is totally regressive and unacceptable. This is after not a police state.

Without fear and favour

The journalists should be able to perform their duty without fear and favour. A free press is after all the bedrock of a functional democracy.

The Madani government has promised to do away with the old regimentation of total control and oppression and provide a freer space for discourse.

I am also disturbed by a suggestion from the communications minister that members of the press should cooperate with authorities on confidential sources. The journalists’ responsibility to protect their sources is sacrosanct.

I fully agree with Gerakan Media Merdeka and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia that “cooperation” with any investigation by the authorities should not involve demands to reveal the identity of a confidential source.

This runs contrary to the Code of Ethics published by the ministry itself.

JOHAN JAAFFAR is a veteran journalist and national journalism laureate.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.

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