Communications and Multimedia Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek has admitted that opposition access to traditional media organisations space is limited, but such limitations won't be extended to the Internet.

"It is not true (that the opposition don't have media access), because they do have access. It is just that currently, (the discussion) involves (traditional) media organisations.

"Over time, the role of (traditional media) is becoming more limited. However, new media (Internet-based media organisations) is expanding and anyone can use it.

NONE "Like it or not, they (opposition) have access to the new media," he told reporters after attending a ceremony in Putrajaya to mark the handing over of duties by his predecessor, Rais Yatim.

Shabery was asked to comment on the claim that BN is hamstrung by lies written by pro-opposition bloggers, and whether any action will be taken to curtail the alleged trend.

Be appreciative

On Internet censorship, Shabery said that the federal government has no intention to curb Internet freedom, unlike other countries.

He said that some countries don't even allow for Facebook access and filter new media content.

"We don't have this in our country. This is proof that we have freedom of expression and we practise it.

" Mungkin tidak sepenuhnya (perhaps it is not an absolute freedom), but at least we have it in basic form and we should appreciate it."

NONE Shabery ( centre in photo ) appeared to be adopting the uniform position of the Prime Minister's Department and many mainstream media organisations that while Pakatan Rakyat have limited access to the mainstream news platforms, it is free to use the Internet.

However, in a country where access to basic necessities such as clean water and electricity is a luxury for many, the reach of the Internet is mainly limited to urban areas, where about two-thirds of the Malaysian population resides.

Pakatan, particularly PKR and PAS who operate in rural areas, believe that access to the mainstream media is needed in order to level the playing field with BN.