For many in Malaysia, the 2018 general election outcome was a historic milestone.
That election marked the end of a government that had become increasingly authoritarian over the decades. This victory was made possible by the efforts of countless individuals and civil society groups who had fought for a more democratic society.
However, the “Sheraton move” in 2020 dashed these democratic dreams.
Despite this setback, many continued their struggle for democracy, placing their hopes in then opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who promised reforms to create a more democratic Malaysia. The 2022 election saw Anwar finally become Prime Minister.
Yet, reforms have been slow to materialise. While it is understandable that such changes take time, worrying signs suggest some reforms are being ignored or delayed.
One of the most crucial promised reforms is freedom of expression, which is essential for democracy to thrive.
In Reporters Without Borders (RSF) 2024 press freedom Index, Malaysia’s ranking dropped 34 places to 107th. This plunge is alarming, especially as Anwar’s Pakatan Harapan had campaigned to amend laws that curb media freedom.
- Sign up for Aliran's free daily email updates or weekly newsletters or both
- Make a one-off donation to Persatuan Aliran Kesedaran Negara, CIMB a/c 8004240948
- Make a regular pledge or periodic auto-donation to Aliran
- Become an Aliran member
It is ironic that under this government, laws that restrict freedom of expression remain unchanged or unabolished. These laws include the Printing Presses and Publications Act, the Sedition Act, the Official Secrets Act and the Communications and Multimedia Act (Section 233).
Recent incidents have put this issue into sharper focus. A civil society group tried to hand over a memorandum demanding justice in the unresolved Teoh Beng Hock case. But their march to Parliament ended in a scuffle with authorities.
Now, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has directed social media platforms to apply for licences from August. This is a move to regulate online media, similar to the way the traditional media had been subjected to.
These episodes are unacceptable under a government that promised to open up democratic spaces. The government must work to expand, not narrow or close down, spaces for public opinions and discourse.
This government should impose a moratorium on media and other laws that curb freedom of expression.
It should instead collaborate with civil society to develop media policies and related legislation that encourage – rather than restrict – free expression.
Only with freedom of expression can democracy truly take root!
Chris Chong
Co-editor, Aliran newsletter
29 July 2024
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
