The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) condemns the recent assault of sports journalist Haresh Deol on 25 November.
This incident showcases continued threats to media practitioners in the field as they carry out their role in good faith.
All media practitioners must be treated with respect and protected from any threats that cause harm to themselves and the people around them so they may effectively inform the people on public interest issues.
Moreover, it was reported that the attack on the deputy president of the National Press Club and co-founder of Twentytwo13, was also filmed as it happened in Bangsar. As such, we question whether or not this was a premeditated attack on the basis of his work as a journalist.
This would imply larger implications for the overall safety of the environment for journalists to carry out their duty, and would subsequently mean more work needs to be done collectively to curtail this.
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Therefore, the CIJ calls for the police to investigate this matter swiftly and transparently.
We condemn, first and foremost, violence of any kind against any person, especially media practitioners who carry out a public service.
Additionally, we hope all relevant authorities take every reasonable action to preserve a safe environment for all journalists in Malaysia, in the light of the troubling nature of this situation.
By showcasing a swift and thorough investigation and action against these perpetrators, we can increase the confidence of journalists to carry out their duties and help eliminate the culture of fear that has plagued those in the media industry.
We stand in solidarity with Deol and urge the police and all stakeholders involved to ensure his and all journalists’ right to life and freedom of expression, as well as to preserve our fourth pillar of democracy. – CIJ
Wathshlah G Naidu is the executive director of the Centre for Independent Journalism.
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