NUJ lauds M'sia’s rise in press freedom index, urges govt abolish PPPA

Summary

• The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) lauds the country's improved standing in this year's World Press Freedom Index.

• Its general-secretary Teh Athira Yusof attributes it to the passing of the Malaysian Media Council law in the Parliament, among others.

• Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching says while improved ranking is good, the ministry still has a long way to go to entrench press freedom.

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The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) lauded the country's improved standing in this year's World Press Freedom Index, up 19 spots to the 88th place.

Its general-secretary Teh Athira Yusof attributed the success to several factors, including the passing of the Malaysian Media Council law in the Parliament two months ago.

"We attribute this improvement to the hardworking journalists, editors, and media practitioners who tirelessly strive for press freedom in the country.

"This improved ranking was also made possible by the passing of the Malaysian Media Council Bill at the parliamentary level in February.

"As the government works towards gazetting the bill, we hope it will strengthen the journalism industry in the country," she said in the statement today.

Yesterday, it was reported that Malaysia has risen to the 88th place in the Reporters Without Borders' (RSF) annual report for 2025, compared to 107th last year.

Adding further, Teh Athira also hoped to see the abolishment of the Printing Presses and Publications Act (PPPA).

"With the formation of the media council, we hope journalists will no longer be threatened under the draconian PPPA, which the union hopes to see abolished soon."

‘Progress is possible’

Meanwhile, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching also attributed the improved ranking to the council formation.

"One of the key factors contributing to the rise is the effort to establish the Malaysian Media Council.

"The law was passed in both houses of Parliament this year, a move aimed at fostering independent, responsible, and professional journalism," she said on Facebook.

While the ministry understands they still have a long way to go, Teo said the index improvement showed that progress is possible for Malaysia.

"The ministry and I are committed to working towards a Malaysia where press freedom and social responsibility can coexist, and where diverse voices are heard and respected,” she added.

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