Malaysia

Putrajaya open to reviewing Official Secrets Act: Takiyuddin

Law minister says govt has no issue doing so, especially if views shared by civil society are aimed at improving existing legislation

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 02 Dec 2020 11:10AM

Putrajaya open to reviewing Official Secrets Act: Takiyuddin
Law Minister Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan says amendments to legislation must strike a balance between public and private interests. – The Vibes file pic, December 2, 2020

by A. Azim Idris

KUALA LUMPUR – The government is open to reviewing current laws, including the Official Secrets Act 1972, in the interest of the people and country, said Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan (PAS-Kota Baru).

In the Dewan Rakyat today, the de facto law minister said Putrajaya has no problem reviewing laws, especially if the views given by civil society groups are aimed at improving existing legislation, including that regarding whistle-blowers.

He was replying to a supplementary question by Sivarasa Rasiah (PH-Sg Buloh), who asked whether the government will consider amending laws to allow for more freedom of information.

Although some legislation is formulated with certain intentions, said Takiyuddin, the interest of the public is also very important.

“This needs to be balanced between public and private interests.” – The Vibes, December 2, 2020

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