Malaysia media groups march to parliament, oppose amendments to laws threatening press freedom

MALAYSIA: Over 50 members of the Fourth for the Fourth (404) Secretariat, including media professionals and representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), marched to Parliament on Wednesday (4 Dec) to submit a memorandum protesting proposed amendments to the Akta Mesin Cetak dan Penerbitan (AMCP) 1984 and advocating for media freedom.

The peaceful march, organised by the National Union of Journalists of Peninsular Malaysia (NUJM), the Independent Media Movement (Geramm), and the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ), began at Taman Tugu at 9:30 am.

The group walked approximately 500 metres before arriving at the Parliament building to hand over the memorandum to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

In a joint statement, NUJM, Geramm, and CIJ explained that the memorandum was addressed to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

The groups firmly opposed any proposed amendments to the AMCP that could undermine the freedom and autonomy of the media.

“We firmly oppose any proposed amendments to the AMCP that threaten the freedom and autonomy of the media,” they said.

“While we welcome the Home Ministry’s assurance to consult with stakeholders, we urge a transparent and inclusive dialogue with all parties involved.”

The memorandum, which called for greater protection of media freedom, was endorsed by 12 media organisations and 40 NGOs, including the Clean and Fair Election Coalition (Bersih), Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO), Mental Patient Democratic Solidarity Network (SIUMAN), Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram), Freedom Film Network, Human Rights Promotion (PROHAM), and the Malaysian Journalists Association.

The media groups raised concerns about the potential introduction of licensing requirements for online media and harsher penalties for media practitioners.

They warned that such measures would severely affect press freedom in Malaysia.

The memorandum elaborated on several issues, including the lack of meaningful consultation in the law-making process, the threat to media’s role as the Fourth Estate, and the dangers posed by the Online Safety Bill and digital media licensing regimes.

These concerns echoed broader criticisms of the government’s approach to controlling media content and suppressing free expression.

“Media freedom is essential for accountability, and we will resist any efforts to undermine it.”

Government response and postponement of amendments

In response to the protests, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assured stakeholders that the government would address their concerns.

Through a Facebook post, PM Anwar expressed the administration’s commitment to creating a positive environment for the media while safeguarding their rights and freedom.

Following these assurances, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that it would postpone the proposed amendments.

Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the delay would allow the government to engage in further discussions with all relevant parties.

Since assuming office in November 2022, the Madani Government, led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has faced criticism for not fulfilling its promises regarding media freedom and reforms.

Media groups have expressed concern over actions and restrictions under the administration that they claim have hindered media independence.

This growing dissatisfaction is reflected in Malaysia’s drop in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Media Freedom Index, which fell from 73rd place in 2023 to 107th in 2024.

RSF’s analysis pointed to increased political pressure on the media, particularly in relation to sensitive issues and criticism of politicians and government officials.