PUTRAJAYA – The government has given its assurance that it will continue to provide the widest possible access for the media to report news, in line with existing provisions in the federal constitution.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah said the government remains committed to supporting and upholding press freedom.
“The government’s stance is clear and we recognise the important role of media practitioners in carrying out their functions and fulfilling their responsibilities,” he said in a statement today.
He said the Communications and Multimedia Ministry has also taken note of the 2021 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders on April 17, in which Malaysia fell the furthest to rank 119th.
Saifuddin said efforts to prevent the spread of false information does not mean restricting press freedom.
In the 21st century information technology era, the media not only has the role of disseminating information but also protecting the people from false information that could threaten the stability and harmony of the country, said Saifuddin.
He said the media in the country has long collaborated with the government and has always been proactive in helping to refute false information.
“As we fight to stop the Covid-19 pandemic, governments around the world also face the challenge of tackling the spread of false information and ensuring that authentic and accurate news and information are channelled to the people,” he said.
He said the enforcement of the Emergency (Essential Powers) (No.2) Ordinance 2021 from March 12 is aimed at specifically addressing false information related to Covid-19 and the emergency proclamation. – Bernama, April 22, 2021
