Govt respects press freedom but laws must be followed, says Fahmi

The government respects the media's right to press freedom, but journalists should also follow the law, communication minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said. 

Speaking at a press conference, the minister reportedly said that the government respect the media's right to protect their sources or whistleblowers, but existing laws apply, according to The Star. 

Fahmi reportedly urged the media to cooperate with the police in investigations if there are any police reports made based on existing laws. 

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This comes after a police report was reportedly lodged over a news portal report claiming there would be a major reshuffle of the police leadership. 

Kuala Lumpur police chief Rusdi Mohd Isa reportedly said that the case is being investigated under Section 505 (b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Act 1998. 

In a statement, the police chief advised the public not to speculate on the matter and that stern action will be taken against anyone who spreads false statements on social media, reported The Star. 

The news portal reportedly claimed that among those involved in the reshuffle are deputy inspector-general of police Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Bukit Aan criminal investigation department director Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain. 

The news portal had reportedly quoted sources which said Ayob Khan might be transferred to lead either the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) or the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) while Mohd Shuhaily might be heading to the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK). 

In July, the minister reportedly advised public relations practitioners to adopt better ethical communications in order to build trust, foster relationships with diverse stakeholders and shape a better future for the industry and society. 

The minister reportedly said that a commitment to ethical standards is more essential now than ever before, especially in an age of misinformation and fake news. 

The minister is also of the opinion that commitment is what sets practitioners apart and that it is trust that empowers influence and drives transformative change, according to Bernama. 

Photo courtesy of Fahmi Fadzil/Facebook

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