Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has denied any crackdown on free speech in Malaysia, telling a global gathering of editors that criticisms of the government and its officials is a daily feature in major newspapers.

In his opening address at the Asian Media Awards Gala dinner in Kuala Lumpur, Najib noted there are foreign activists who had raised concerns over "crackdowns" on free speech in Malaysia.

"But look at our press. You will find criticism of the Government, of our ministers, of our officials, in our newspapers every day," said Najib at the annual award ceremony organised by the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers, which is now in its 16th year...