MCMC should have given TMI chance to explain ‘confusing’ news report, groups say

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) should have accorded The Malaysian Insider (TMI) the chance to respond to allegations that it had published a “confusing” news report, journalists’ groups said today.

This, said the groups would have been a preferred approach instead of blocking TMI’s website.

In a statement, the Institute of Journalists Malaysia (IoJ) pointed out that the MCMC did not indicate which article contravened with Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, nor how its content had violated the law.

“While the Institute does not condone any violation of the law, it notes that there was no clear reason given by the authorities in imposing the block on several local networks.

“The IoJ reiterates its position that any party, be it a government agency or private entity, should exercise its right of reply and explain its side of the story on any issue in order to meet its obligations to the public interest,” IoJ said, adding that the move was merely an attempt by the authorities to “intimidate the media” out of reporting on “critical” news.

Gerakan Media Marah (GERAMM), a coalition of journalists, media representatives and activists, echoed IoJ’s statement, adding that the ban on TMI shows the the authorities did not consider alternatives before blocking the website.

“If a report is (sic) lodged, there are enough existing provisions in the law without resorting to blocking access to the website.

“Notice should be served and ample warning given in due diligence of law instead of immediately blocking the site,” its statement read.

The coalition also urged Putrajaya to “respect” journalists’ rights to protect anonymous sources.

Yesterday, members of an independent MACC panel rejected a TMI report claiming they said there was enough evidence to prosecute the prime minister.

In the statement issued by Tan Sri Hamid Bugo, the chairman of the Operations Review Panel, and another member, they said the individual who made the claim was not authorised to do so and had misrepresented what the panel decided.

The Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar also tweeted earlier today that TMI’s chief editor Jahabar Sadiq will be questioned over the said “confusing” report.