It is a step backwards, declared the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) today on a recent Department of Environment (DOE) directive for its officials to re-affirm their obligations under the Official Secrets Act (OSA).

Occurring a day after Press Freedom Day, it was doubly disappointing after Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Environment S Sothinathan had on April 19 given the assurance that the DOE would not be gagged, said CIJ director Sonia Randhawa in a statement today.

"He had even invited journalists to contact state directors and ministry officials if they required more information about current problems besetting the department," added Randhawa.

The New Straits Times reported on May 4 that top officers and those dealing with sensitive information would have to sign a new declaration on the OSA.

Confirming the directive, DOE director-general Rosnani Ibarahim explained that it was "a routine exercise" and came after a National Security Department briefing on the Act.

Repeal the OSA

She denied, however, that it came about after several news reports drew attention to irregularities in the DOE's handling of cases of illegal dumping in Perak and Johore.

The CIJ director also urged the government to repeal the OSA and replace it with a Freedom of Information Act that accommodates secrecy on national security matters while adhering to the principle of maximum disclosure.

"Disclosure of weaknesses in the administration promotes accountability and good governance," Randhawa said, adding that these qualities would aid the government's avowed fight against corruption.