The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ) wants police to act against those who attacked a press photographer after a Super League match between Johor Darul Takzim FC (JDT) and Perak FA at the Ipoh Stadium last night.

New Straits Times Press (NSTP), Supian Ahmad, reportedly sustained injuries and lost equipment worth RM30,000 in the commotion which saw JDT and Perak supporters throwing bottles and firecrackers at each other.

"The supporters actions of attacking and demanding that pictures taken deleted is extreme and uncouth.

"It is the duty of photographers to capture events during a match, including incidents that occur before and after any match," NUJ said in a statemet.

NUJ said match organisers and stadium officials must now also put in place operating procedures which ensure media personnel's safety.

It also called on the authorities to be more vigilant against smuggling of non-permitted items into match venues, given the use of flares and firecrackers in last night's incident.

Media advocacy group Gerakan Media Marah (Geramm) also condemned the attack.

Journalists must be given respect and protection while on duty, the group said in a statement.

"Geramm is confident that if the press, authorities, security personnel and fans were to cooperate and exercise good judgment and best conduct, incidents such as these can be avoided and enjoying the beautiful game of football will be a more enjoyable experience," it said.

According to Bernama, the provocation erupted when JDT supporters ran onto the pitch to celebrate their 1-0 victory, causing the both teams' supporters to throw bottles and firecrackers at each other.

The NSTP photographer said he was attacked by JDT supporters while documenting the incident in the middle of the pitch.

He said he was trampled on and his equipment was snatched by attackers.

JDT in a statement later described the claims as slander.

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