KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 9 — Seputeh MP Teresa Kok has called on the police to halt their investigation into news portal Malaysiakini, emphasising the importance of media freedom in a democratic society.

In a statement released today, the DAP national vice-chairperson urged the authorities to immediately cease the undue pressure on three Malaysiakini journalists, to respect media freedom, and to uphold the rights of journalists to protect their sources.

She argued that such actions threaten media freedom and contradict the principles of openness and transparency that are essential in a democracy.

“Media freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies,” Kok said in her statement.

“The media has not only the right but also the responsibility to monitor government activities and provide accurate information to the public.”

Earlier this week, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said that the police would take action against any news reports deemed malicious or defamatory, under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act and Section 505(b) of the Penal Code on making statements conducing to public mischief.

He had urged the public to only refer to official sources on matters involving the country’s security forces, following rumours of a reshuffle in Bukit Aman.

Malaysiakini in its report had alleged that several senior officers including Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain were among those allegedly expected to be transferred in the reshuffle.

Citing an anonymous police source, Malaysiakini said that Ayob will allegedly head another agency under the Home Ministry such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency or the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency.

Kok argued that such actions by the police could stifle the work of journalists, especially when they are uncovering important facts in the public interest.

She emphasised that journalists should be able to work without fear of reprisal, particularly in a healthy democracy.

“The public has the right to know about significant changes within the government,” Kok said. “Such openness is fundamental to the trust between the people and the government, and it is key to the democratic system.”

She also called on the unity government to move away from old authoritarian practices and to embrace the spirit of reform.

According to Kok, the new government’s purpose was to correct past mistakes and advance Malaysia towards a more democratic, transparent, and just future — not to continue old methods of oppression and control.

“The power of the government should not lie in suppressing the media but in embracing openness, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to the public interest,” she added. “A government willing to accept criticism and scrutiny is a truly strong government.”

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/09/stop-probe-on-malaysiakini-respect-media-freedom-seputeh-mp-teresa-kok-tells-police/146469