Probe on reporters: Teresa reminds govt of reform promises

With three Malaysiakini journalists coming under police investigation, a DAP MP reminded the coalition government of its promises of reforms.

“The new government was formed to correct past wrongs and steer the nation towards democracy and transparency, not backpedal towards the old ways of control and persecution.

“So, ditch the old authoritarian mindset and embrace reforms. An administration that is ready to accept criticism and watchdog’s role is a strong government,” Seputeh MP Teresa Kok said in a statement.

On Tuesday, Malaysiakini published an article on Bukit Aman allegedly planning a major reshuffle involving its top officers, including Deputy Inspector-General Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.

Subsequently, Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said the story was “untrue” as Bukit Aman had not issued an official statement on the matter.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Rusdi Mohd Isa later confirmed that the matter is being investigated under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998.

Asked to comment on the matter, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil urged the journalists to cooperate with the police.

“If there is a police report made based on existing laws at this time, we ask anyone involved in the probe to cooperate with the police.

“The police will conduct an investigation based on these laws,” he was reported as saying.

On that note, Kok reminded the government that a free press would not only help create a responsible government but also establish a visionary society.

“And defending press freedom is not only about protecting the media but also our democratic values.

“This is not only our responsibility but a commitment to the future generations,” the former minister added.

‘Media's duty to the public’

Touching on the investigation, Kok chided the police for their actions as it would affect press freedom and ran against the call for transparency espoused by democratic societies.

She also reminded the police that the media have a duty to monitor the government and provide factual reports to the public.

“In a healthy democracy, reporters should be able to work without having to face intimidation especially when they report on matters of public interest.

“And the police’s action in asking reporters to reveal their sources goes against the concept of press freedom,” Kok stressed.

Earlier today, former law minister Zaid Ibrahim also criticised the police over the move, adding that a mere denial of the report would have sufficed.

“It’s not right to harass journalists this way. Why investigate them for possible criminal offences?

“Journalists know their responsibility to report based on factual events. Where the sources are unconfirmed, they would exercise caution.

“They would check and counter-check. They would ensure the credibility of the source is good,” Zaid was reported as saying.

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