Teresa Kok: Stop pressuring Malaysiakini reporters, respect press freedom

DAP vice-chairman Teresa Kok urged the police to immediately cease undue pressure on Malaysiakini journalists and respect press freedom.

Kok, who is also a Seputeh MP, said that journalists have the right to protect their sources.

“The police’s action of summoning three journalists to provide statements and reveal their sources is seen as a threat to press freedom and a violation of the openness and transparency principles practised in a democratic society.

“People have the right to know about significant changes in government.

“This transparency is the foundation of trust between the people and the government, and is crucial to the democratic system,” she said via Facebook post.

“Media freedom is fundamental in a democratic society.

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

Kok said the government must do away with “old authoritarian thinking” and refrain from using its power to oppress the media.

She added that the unity government should also review and reconsider laws that might be misused to suppress press freedom.

“Only in this way can we together preserve our democratic system, ensure the public’s right to information, and advance Malaysia towards a brighter and fairer future.

“Defending press freedom is not just about media freedom, but also about upholding our democratic values and the future of our country.

“This is not only our responsibility but also our commitment to future generations,” Kok said.

Malaysiakini reported that the Royal Malaysian Police was planning a major reshuffle of its top leadership, prompting the police to summon three Malaysiakini journalists to assist in the investigation and demanding they disclose their sources.

The police have also warned the public against speculating on the matter and stated that legal action will be taken against anyone spreading unauthorised information on social media.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain reportedly said that the police are prepared to take strict measures under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) for misuse of network services, Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for statements causing public mischief and other relevant legal provisions.

He cautioned that under Section 233 of the CMA, a conviction could result in a fine of up to RM50,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

Yesterday, Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan of DAP criticised the use of criminal law to coerce journalists into revealing their sources, calling such actions inappropriate.