Fahmi: Free press key to democratic governance of M'sia

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said that press freedom will continue to be defended in the democratic governance system of Malaysia, adding that the media must be given the space to report freely.

He emphasised that journalists must not be threatened or intimidated when carrying out their work.

“I want all journalists to always be treated with professionalism though this does not mean we cannot question their reporting but there is a proper way of doing it,” he said in addressing the media at the official launch of the Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia in Kuching last night.

“For me, the media should be able to report freely but the person who is the subject of the reporting must be given the right to reply,” he said, according to a report by The Borneo Post.

Earlier this month, the minister came under pressure when Malaysia fell 34 places to 107th place in the World Press Freedom Index issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

At the time, he said no journalists in Malaysia had been arrested or thrown in jail and not a single newspaper had been closed, adding that the media had more room to operate freely compared to previous administrations.

Yesterday, Fahmi said that his ministry’s role is also to promote mutual understanding with various parties about the responsibilities of the press and to minimise misunderstandings.

He added that his ministry will find ways to assist media organisations in navigating the tough operating environment due to declining newspaper readership.

Fahmi also vowed to address the welfare of the media community.

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