Settled? Lynas should restore Free Malaysia Today's press freedom...

Should we allow businesses, corporations, MNCs.... take away freedom of expression, freedom of opinion, press freedom, freedom to highlight human rights violations and other real concerns about rights, justice, health risks, environment? 

Well, sadly in Malaysia - there is still no legal protection accorded to human rights defenders and others (including media) who try to exercise these freedoms....

...and, it should not be so - there must be laws that protect the ordinary citizen and concerned groups of persons so that they can truly exercise these freedoms in democratic Malaysia...

The case of Lynas is of great interest... for this corporation, I believe, went to court to effectively try to 'gag' or prevent any statement, opinions and views that were anti-Lynas... 

There were 2 suits filed, and we look now at the second suit that was filed...i.e. the suit against the publishers of Free Malaysia Today (an alternative on-line media)... which was just recently settled...

Let us look at the apology...

An apology to Lynas Corp Ltd

July 17, 2012

Re: Lynas Corporation Ltd & Anor v Mtoday News Sdn Bhd
Kuala Lumpur High Court Civil Suit No 23 NCVC-52-04-2012
We refer to the articles previously published by us which claim that the Lynas plant may be unsafe. We apologise for these publications as such claims do not have a scientific basis. The regulatory review of the Lynas plant has been thorough and diligent.

[ http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2012/07/17/an-apology-to-lynas-corp-ltd/#ixzz21omXEMfv ]

Comment - so the articles raised concerned that the Lynas Plant may be unsafe .... it was not an allegation that the Lynas plant was definitely unsafe. 

And, today there was a settlement recorded in court...

And, shockingly part of the settlement seems to be an undertaking that Free Malaysia Today will no more publish anti-Lynas statements

MToday’s counsel, Rueben Mathiavaranam, told reporters that as part of terms of the settlement, Lynas withdrew the suit and the defendant gave the undertaking not to publish any more anti-Lynas statements.

So, VICTORY for Lynas - for now Malaysians and others have lost ONE avenue to assert opinions, views... for the shutting down of the Lynas Plant....etc...

So, will the strategy for such corporations be further legal actions against other forms of expression - resulting in just a shut down of all anti-Lynas protest, opinions, etc....

It is a good strategy for corporations, who do have the resources to do so, --- but is something that individual persons, protest groups, civil society, alternative media, bloggers do not have... being taken to court is not only stressful, but there is a lot money and resources needed for lawyers, etc...The Malaysian courts, with the quantum of costs and damages being awarded is no more for the poorer folks - but only the rich can utilize this battleground...

It would have been more just to have just been required to give an undertaking that no anti-Lynas statement be published until Lynas be given an opportunity to respond before publication. That is what is expected of the media anyway...

 “We apologise for these publications as such claims do not have a scientific basis. The regulatory review of the Lynas plant has been thorough and diligent,” it said.

Are we expected to only say things after we have done scientific research or scientist opinions.... Can media or persons publish matters based on their own belief, opinion, etc - based on a general understanding of a subject matter obtained by 'limited' research vide internet, libraries, publications, etc ... I believe, yes.... 

Is rare earth dangerous? Is radiation generated a health risk? ... It is sad that part of the settlement required FMT to say ...'no scientific basis...' at all....and to also say that the review had been 'thorough and diligent' - who is FMT (or its owners) to say that it had been thorough and diligent.... Lynas can say that, but ultimately it will be the reviewing body who has to show that it was 'thorough and diligent'... and if persons disagree, then they should have the opportunity to appeal....and even take the matter to Court for a determination that it was 'thorough and diligent'.... I say, at the end of the day, all that one can really say is that I "...verily believe that it was thorough...blah...blah..." - for only God can say whether something is thorough or not....

PROPOSAL TO GOVERNMENT & CORPORATION/BUSINESSES

This is not a Battle between Lynas and the people of Malaysia  - both have a right to have their say, raise their points, make their assertions and arguements.... and all this is directed to the Malaysian Government and/or the State Government and/or the relevant Local Council and/or Parliament....- who have the power to decide whether the said rare earth processing plant be allowed to operate, continue to operate, etc.... (and after that decision is made, anyone not happy can appeal ...challenge it in courts...). For cases of judicial review, there must be no cost and damages awarded at all...

So, there must be laws against parties using the courts and/or other means to attempt to gag, to gag, or to undermine the right and freedom of opinions, views, expression of the other party...

We do not want a society where human persons are expected to be 'silent' and all accepting all that is done by governments and businesses.... we want a society where human persons are concerned about others, environment and the overall well-being and  good of the community... we want people to express their views and opinions....freely...and unhindered. There should be no requirement that this must be done in 'good' English or BM - likewise there should be no requirement that they must have scientific basis or proof first... before they can express a view...Views and opinions of ordinary persons are generally based of feelings, perceptions, beliefs, values, etc... seldom does it come after any 'thorough investigations' or scientific experimentation or research....and to expect that 'high standards' of ordinary human persons (not experts in the field) is really nothing more than a suppression of the freedom of expression and views...

Malaysia must ratify the UN Human Rights Defenders Convention ...

We must have laws that promote freedom of expression - not that suppress them...? As such, the repeal of the Sedition Act is certainly a step in the right direction....

We certainly must be also given full freedom of expression when it comes to corporations and businesses...

When it comes to statements about individual persons - it may have some control

 

I am of the opinion that the right to sue for defamation/libel should only be available to individual human persons - certainly not to corporations and other legal entities...

Lynas withdraws suit after FMT apologises

Bernama 12:57PM Jul 27, 2012

Lynas Corporation Limited and Lynas Malaysia Sdn Bhd today withdrew their suit after MToday News Sdn Bhd, operator of the online news portal Free Malaysia Today (FMT), apologised to Lynas over an allegedly defamatory article published on its website.

The parties recorded the settlement of the suit in chambers before High Court Judge Nor Bee Ariffin.

MToday’s counsel, Rueben Mathiavaranam, told reporters that as part of terms of the settlement, Lynas withdrew the suit and the defendant gave the undertaking not to publish any more anti-Lynas statements.

“As part of the settlement, the court also made no order as to costs and no damages to be payable, and for three offending articles also to be removed from the FMT (website),” he said.

On July 17, MToday posted an apology on its website, www.freemalaysiatoday.com, over the published articles which claimed that the Lynas plant might be unsafe for the public.
 
“We apologise for these publications as such claims do not have a scientific basis. The regulatory review of the Lynas plant has been thorough and diligent,” it said.

On April 19, Lynas Corporation of Sydney, Australia, and Lynas Malaysia filed the suit against MToday News over an allegedly defamatory article published on its website on March 6.

Lynas sought general and aggravated damages, costs and an injunction restraining the defendant from publishing further defamatory articles on Lynas.

Counsel Rishwant Singh represented Lynas.

- Bernama - Malaysiakini, 27/7/2012, Lynas withdraws suit after FMT apologises

Do hope that Lynas - will review its position - and give back full press freedom to Free Malaysia Today with regard its future coverage about Lynas. The condition to contact Lynas for a comment/response if the news report is 'anti-Lynas' before publication of the said report, with the assurance that Lynas will respond within 1 hour failing which the report shall be published - and any response by Lynas shall be forthwith published thereafter as soon as possible...

Press Freedom in Malaysia - Not a 'controlled' puppet media... very pro-government.. .

Malaysian democracy in practice is a mockery to democracy, as Najib's BN government's understanding is that people vote for their elected reps once every 5 years to sit in Parliament and the State Legislative Assemblies, and thereafter people are expected to sit back in silence and accept whatever the ruling governments do and say. 

Thereafter, people are not allowed to have free speech, free expression, freedom of opinion, freedom of assembly, freedom of association, freedom of the press.... all these being freedoms guaranteed by the highest law  in the country, the Federal Constitution - which thereafter is taken away by other laws.

According to the BN government, people are not permitted to voice opposition or a different opinion from the ruling government on any matter... and if they do, then they are being 'anti-government', and hence a threat to national security ... and the law will act against them - even by using those draconian Detention Without Trial laws which permits indefinite detention for reasons that are unchallengeable in court. 

To exercise freedoms guaranteed by the Federal Constitution - one requires permission by the government, the police, etc - and even, if one were to apply for these permissions, the chances are they are not given - and, even if given, it is given at the eleventh hour with absurd conditions. Political party functions and gatherings in closed halls have previously been given on condition that there are no political speeches...(Is that not absurd?)

Of course, when it comes to premises, many of the peoples' venues like stadiums and town halls is almost impossible to get - why the 'managers' of the premises refuses to give permission, as in the recent free election gathering - citing reasons of 'unavailability'(when it is free) or even worry that the premises may be damaged/vandalized...Even certain private facilities are 'forced' to reject permissions.

Of course, the late police approval (even if given), makes it very difficult to advertise the event and make the necessary preparations. Monies will all have to be spend for the venue and related matters - and suddenly at the last minute, you may never get the approval and may have to cancel. After such experiences, many will just stop - or just stop applying. Many Malaysians feel it is absurd to have to apply to the police for permissions - hence, they will proceed without making any such applications....why give the police so much power? In other countries, requirement is only to inform the police - not ask for permissions.

Media - well, since all publications need to again apply for and get licenses every year, or can have their licenses immediately revoked or 'suspended temporarily' - most main stream media have been cowed into just being propagators of government voices, and not giving space for any other alternative voice or opinion. In the recent ALIRAN monthly, even with regard the 9/7/2011 BERSIH 2.0 event, media was 'instructed' on how they should cover the event.... they were allegedly said not to refer to the event as 'BERSIH rally or ...' but as 'illegal assembly'. They were asked to just focus on the problems caused - disruption to business, traffic jams, vandalism, etc ...

TV, radio told to demonise Bersih rally

 

Lee Way Loon
Jul 1, 11
12:03pm

 

With the Bersih 2.0 rally just around the corner, the authorities have launched a media campaign to label the rally as an illegal gathering to the extent that TV stations are required to submit daily reports detailing their news coverage on the rally.

Malaysiakini learnt that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which oversees all private TV and radio stations, has directed the broadcasters to state the number and content of news related to Bersih in their reports.

Yesterday, the commission also invited representatives from 22 electronic media and telecommunications operators to attend a one-day seminar titled 'Content Monitoring Seminar 2011' at its auditorium in Cyberjaya.

According to the MCMC letter issued to the electronic media, a copy of which was obtained by Malaysiakini, the aim of the seminar is to "discuss compliance with licensing criteria and other relevant provisions".

Editors who attended the seminar told Malaysiakini that they were implicitly advised by the MCMC not to refer to the rally as "Bersih rally" but as "illegal gathering" in their news coverage and to discourage members of the public from taking part in it.

On July 9, the day of the rally, footage showing police using violence on protesters is considered taboo, the editors said.

Instead the news should highlight the difficulties and inconvenience caused by the rally to the people, as well as scenes of protesters heckling, public property being vandalised and massive traffic congestions.

RTM already playing the role

State-owned RTM TV stations have been airing street polls against the rally on an almost daily basis in the past week.

Messages telling people to stay away from the rally are also being aired daily over both RTM and MCA-owned Mandarin radio station 988, which has highlighted the rally's status as illegal.

Most of the mainstream local dailies, meanwhile, have already been referrring to the Bersih 2.0 rally as an "illegal gathering".

Even the Chinese dailies, which exercise comparatively greater editorial independence, are leaning toward a conservative stand on this issue.

Both China Press and Nanyang Siang Pau have in their editorials recently dissuaded the people from taking part in the rally in order to "protect the national security".

Among others, they recalled the May 13 racial clashes of 1969 in order to convince their readers about the potential harm the illegal assembly could bring about.

Websites warned

Meanwhile, MCMC has warned it would shut down websites deemed a threat to national security, including those promoting the July 9 rally.

MCMC chief strategy officer Mohamed Sharil Mohamed Tarmizi told the Star that the commission would not hesitate to take action against any website for breaching the Communication and Multimedia Act.

Anything deemed illegal or wrong in the real world also applied to the cyber world, said Sharil.

Responding to an anti-Bersih advertisement aired on RTM channel TV2 yesterday, PAS Youth urged RTM to stop “misusing taxpayers' money to commit slander against a people's movement”.

“The short advertisement starts with an actor showing a Bersih leaflet, which was well-received by actor Bell Ngasri who showed interest in joining the rally.

"This was followed by actor Ezany Nizariff who showed a clip of chaos breaking out overseas, while saying that this will be what will happen at the Bersih rally and that the rakyat will feel threatened while tourists will flee.

“The advertisement ended with Bell throwing away the leaflet and saying that the Bersih rally is actually a dirty rally... RTM has allowed itself to become a political tool, but worse still, it showed no evidence that such violence and chaos would happen in Bersih and was forced to steal footage from overseas,” said the Selangor PAS Youth information chief Riduan Mohd Nor.

He added that if RTM wanted to let the people know the truth about Bersih then they should telecast on TV1 and TV2 a debate between Bersih and the Election Commission or BN representatives.- Malaysiakini, 1/7/2011, TV, radio told to demonise Bersih rally

Now,  a Media Consultative Council led by Ministers - just another mechanism, I believe, to stifle further press freedom in Malaysia - to possibly ensure what should be reported, and how it should be reported... As it is, mainstream media is already functioning as government loudspeakers - providing very little coverage for opposing viewpoints, very little 'investigative reporting' that will definitely serve as a check and balance against government/s abuse of power,... and if one were to even read newspapers from Thailand and other countries, we will see 'how boring' and 'un-newspaper like' malaysian mainstream media has become. Najib and the BN should realize that it is these kind of 'controls' and 'media' that has forced Malaysians to come out to the streets in an effort to communicate their views and concerns to the governments of the day, to the people of Malaysia and to the world at large...

Remember that criticisms of government, its actions and its policies, is a pre-requisite of a true democracy... and a truly democratic government will not be afraid of such criticisms - and will respond not with threats, violence and 'laws', but by giving answers, explanations and views... all intended to convince Malaysians. You do not suppress alternative voices - you encourage them. Yo do not just 'blindly' reject all differing views, but you listen and consider - accept those that are good reject the 'bad' - and importantly listen to the people and easily acknowledge when you are wrong.

Freedom of the press must be allowed uninhibited - and, if the government really wants to have a space for its voice to be heard, then maybe get a few pages in mainstream dailies (paying for it, of course) and insert your statements, views, etc... could call that "Government's Voice" or "Government Speaks"...

Editors snub gov't-led media council at first meeting

 

Aidila Razak & Salhan K Ahmad
Jul 25, 11
7:13pm

 

Editors of print media were today unanimous in their opposition to a government-led media consultative council, at the first meeting with the government to discuss the matter.

According to those who attended the poorly-represented closed- door meeting chaired by Information, Communication and Culture Ministry secretary general Kamaruddin Siaraf (right), the editors were "about 100 percent" against government involvement in the council.

Notable absences in the one-hour meeting today were top editors of widely-read publications The Star, The Edge and Malay Mail.

Those who made it included representatives from The Sun, Bernama, the China Press group, Sin Chew group and the NSTP group, as well as the National Union of Journalists Malaysia.

Also present were media officials from the Prime Minister's Department.

“The print media is sending a very clear message that we feel that this is another layer of control.

“The perception is that we are already battered,” said a source who attended the meeting.

This was echoed by NSTP group managing editor Nuraina Samad, who also attended the meeting.

“How is going to help our circulation?” she asked, raising anxiety over the council's effect on the bottom line.

However, Kamaruddin, who according to the Home Ministry and Information, Communication and Ministry joint-proposal is to be the co-deputy chairperson of the council, said that the press have gotten the wrong impression.

'It's not about regulation'

“The council is not about regulation, it is just a consultative council that has no executive powers.

“We just want to be a helping hand, nothing else.”

“All we want is to pave the way to establish (an independent) media council... we have enough laws to regulate already,” he said, adding that he will take the feedback to the government.

Kamaruddin, who admitted that the editors had “gone against him” in the meeting, also went as far as conceding “failure”.

“We had called the print media first.. but it has failed even with them... so I have to report this to the government,” he said.

He added that they will also consider the suggestion from Bernama editor-in-chief Yong Soo Heong to also include media owners in the council.

According to NUJ secretary-general V Anbalagan (right), what the media essentially wants is a council independent of the government in order to maintain its role as the fourth estate.

“This is a step backward, an exercise in futility... What we want is to set up a council made up of media members which is funded with taxpayers' money.

“It should not be headed by the government but by a retired judge,” he said, relating the outcome of a NUJ meeting in April on the matter.

The government proposal discussed today suggested that the council be co-chaired by Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein and Information, Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim.

The deputy co-chairpersons will be the ministries' secretary generals, while officials from the Prime Minister's Department, National Security Council, and the Information Ministry's Special Functions Department (Jasa) were also proposed as council members.

The council aims to, among others, be a forum for “harmonious” cooperation in the interest of nation-building, and to produce “communication strategies to tackle recurring issues”. - Malaysiakini, 25/7/2011, Editors snub gov't-led media council at first meeting

Anwar's principled position against ISA, Sedition Act .... Will Pakatan Rakyat take a similar stand?

At last, Anwar Ibrahim has come out with a principled stand - and hopefully all Pakatan Rakyat component parties and other Opposition parties, including those parties in BN that are for human rights and justice should also adopt the same.

We should not call for the ISA and/or any other Detention Without Trial Laws to be used against any person - irrespective of how 'hurtful' a statement he/she makes - and this is because we are for freedom of speech, expression, opinion and peaceful assembly. We should be consistent in our position that these are bad laws that should all be repealed immediately.

Likewise, we should not be calling the police to stop, arrest, detain and/or charge persons who exercise the right to protest and peaceful assembly even if it targeted against PR State governments, Pakatan Rakyat and/or any of its parties, or personalities. It would be a contradiction to our position that all laws and/or provisions of laws that deny persons the right to peaceful assembly and protest be repealed. 

It is also wrong for us to be calling for the revocation of printing/publishing permits and/or banning of certain media agencies from certain functions that are open to the media - for its a violation of our our call for press freedom.

It is also wrong for us to be calling for action to be taken against certain bloggers, twitters, websites....because we are angry and/or not happy with what they said. 

We should not be calling for de-registration of certain societies, associations, .... as this would be against freedom of association. 

It is OK to call for a boycott of certain publications, persons, etc.... it is OK to come out with statements expressing our feelings and disagreements - but not call on the Malaysian government and/or the police to use the powers given under the very same 'bad laws' that we want to be seen deleted from our body of Malaysian laws...

In the past, sadly some of the Opposition parties and personalities have called for the utilization of these same 'bad laws' against those who said or did things that made them angry...unhappy. The past is the past...and this must be stopped... and we must act 'differently' from the government of the day - and demonstrate that we are truly principled and will not advocate the using of any anti-freedom anti-rights laws even against the worst of our 'enemies'....

Beware also the 'tricks' of government in trying to get support for new laws that will curtail freedoms and rights.... There has been talk that there may be new laws to 'control' freedom of expression though the internet... and, I wonder whether the highlighting of 1 or 2 blogpost about this whole "Christian PM...official religion of Malaysia' issue which generated much 'anger' and reaction was just another attempt to convince Malaysians that we do need laws to 'control' freedoms now available in cyberspace... No to 'internet' control and censorship laws....

PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim does not support calls for sedition laws nor the Internal Security Act be used against Ibrahim Ali, the leader of Malay right-wing group Perkasa.

Anwar said that Malaysians must, instead, collectively decide whether they were willing to condone the incitement of religious or racial hatred by Perkasa and other right-wing groups.

"People who are angry with Ibrahim asked for him to be charged with sedition or ISA. I don't," he said in an exclusive interview with Malaysiakini yesterday.

"As a matter of principle, I don't support ISA or the Sedition Act and therefore I do not condone the use of these (laws), even as a temporary measure.

"(But) should a civilised country, after half a century of independence, condone these sorts of sentiments?"

Ibrahim, who is also Pasir Mas parliamentarian, had come under fire for calling for a 'crusade' and 'jihad' (holy war) against Christians, who were accused of trying to undermine Islam's position in Malaysia.

His remarks last Saturday at a 1Malaysia event was in response to a heavily-refuted Utusan Malaysia's report that a group of church leaders had taken an oath to make Christianity the country's official religion and to install a Christian prime minister.

'Ibrahim singing gov't tune'

Both the opposition Pakatan Rakyat and some BN leaders have called for Ibrahim to be punished.

However, Anwar said that while Ibrahim could investigated under laws other than ISA or the Sedition Act, he believed that no action would be taken against the vocal MP because such incitement was condoned by the ruling regime.

"There are laws to investigate (Ibrahim), but how do investigate when you know it is being promoted and supported by the ruling establishment?" he asked.

On Tuesday, de facto law minister Nazri Abdul Aziz told Malaysiakini that it would be unfair to take action against Ibrahim as he is only one of many people who utter seditious comments lately.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein also skirted the issue, dismissing the Independent MP's views as not representative of the majority of Malays and Muslims in Malaysia.

Ibrahim: I said 'jihad' for shock value

Meanwhile, in a statement late last night, Ibrahim sought to clarify that he was using the word 'jihad' to shock the Muslims into realising that Islam was being ridiculed.

"Jihad does not only mean perang salib (crusade), it does not mean the killing of Christians and Muslims, (but it) includes acts of prevention (by) using one's hands, mouth, writing and other means.

"Everyone lost their cool (in response to Saturday's speech) but they don't realise what they do sometimes also demean Islam, and when this happens no one is reprimanded," he said.

Ibrahim lamented that the only media which gets criticised all the time is Utusan, and that new media, be it news portals, blogs, Facebook pages or Twitter users, get away scot-free by posting insulting articles and photos that insult the religion.

"I used the word 'jihad' to jolt people into realising (that Islam is being maligned)," he said.

'Naive' to expect action against Utusan
Asked to comment on the Home Ministry's caution letter against Utusan, Anwar said that it would be "naive" to believe that action would be meted out against the Umno-owned newspaper.

Citing his experience as a Umno deputy president, he claimed that the "it is an unwritten law of the country" that Utusan gets its instructions straight from the party's boss.

"Clearly (it is) naive to assume that Umno will take action against their own party newspaper which functions under the direction of the president of the party, who happens to be the prime minister of the country.

"I'm not ... fatalistic or dismissive (about the matter). I'm saying that this must be made known. (Prime Minister) Najib (Abdul Razak) can go on saying 'Oh, Utusan - tough!' but I know Utusan and how it is run," he said.

The Home Ministry had last week issued a caution letter against Utusan for publishing the report on the alleged Christian conspiracy but this was deemed by its detractors as too lenient.

Malaysiakini will be publishing the full interview with Anwar Ibrahim next week.- Malaysiakini, 20/5/2011, 'Don't use ISA or sedition laws against Ibrahim Ali'

Everyone has the freedom to have their say - and the people will listen and decide on their own position and stance. Malaysians are mature and reasonable and will think for themselves and make their own position.

An anti-Press Freedom proposal by DAP State Assemblyperson - Be different PR and not like the BN

It is sad when an Opposition member of the Penang State Assembly is calling for the barring of a newspaper from the State Assembly - this is certainly against the Freedom of the Press and freedom of expression/speech. We were all very angry when the BN kept some media/journalist including Malaysiakini from official events and other functions - so, come on DAP, let us not also follow the bad examples of BN by these calls.

A way of showing displeasure is by the tabling and passing of a Motion (Usul) against the Utusan Malaysia or any report - but not barring the media (or journalist) from the State Legislative Assembly.

Respect Freedom of Speech and Expression. Respect Press Freedom. There may be some statements or positions that we may not agree with or are angry about - but there are ways to respond to this, and it certainly is not by curtailing the freedoms. Protest...Come out with a statement - a Motion of the House criticizing the reports - but not revoking permits, curtailing freedoms, etc...

Rep wants Utusan barred from Penang assembly

May 9, 11
11:26am

 

A Penang DAP assemblyperson has called for an Umno-owned newspaper to be barred from covering proceedings at the state legislative assembly today.

His request comes a day after the state government, in collaboration with NGOs, celebrated the first anniversary of the Speakers Square - aimed at free speech - at the Esplanade.

Jagdeep Singh Deo (DAP-Datuk Keramat) (left) said Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein appears to be unable to do his job to sanction Utusan Malaysia for fanning serious racial sentiments.

“So let the state assembly show him that we can do his job by asking Utusan Malaysia to get out (of the assembly),” he said.

“They have been twisting (news) too much and I am very concerned about what they would do with the proceedings in the assembly,” he added.

Jagdeep said this when responding to State exco member for Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Phee Boon Poh, who was speaking on the relevance of 1Malaysia Clinics while wrapping up the Yang di-Pertua Negeri's speech in the assembly today.

The lawyer was referring to the recent controversy over the Malay daily's front page news on Friday, suggesting that the DAP was colluding with a group of pastors to amend the country's official religion to pave the way for a Christian prime minister.

The article was based on blog postings in two pro-Umno blogs - Bigdog.wordpress.com and Marahku - which alleged that a DAP leader, Jelutong MP Jeff Ooi, had attended a secret meeting with a group of pastors for the said purpose in Penang.

Hishammuddin then joined in the fray to remark that the allegations were 'a serious matter' if they were true.

Information, Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim said that the postings should be investigated by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

Dozens of police reports have been lodged nationwide against Ooi, who is a DAP central committee member, by Malay rights pressure groups such as Pembela and Perkasa.

Ooi has denied the allegations and countered them by lodging a police report himself to urge the police to investigate the Malay daily and blogs.

Jagdeep said that Utusan Malaysia is yet to be satisfied with its '1Melayu 1Bumi' proposal, and has now alleged that his party has plans for a Christian state.

'Too much time on divisive politics'

He added that the Barisan Nasional has spent too much time on divisive politics to care for any other matter.

He decried that Hishammuddin, who is also Umno vice-president, has allowed the newspaper to continue fanning racial tension without taking any action against it.

RSN Rayer (DAP-Seri Delima) (left) questioned why Ooi was called by the police to give his statement over the issue when it was the news daily which had raised the sensitive issue.

“It is the reporter (from the newspaper) who wrote the report who should be arrested, questioned by the police, charged with sedition and put in jail,” charged Rayer.

House speaker Abdul Halim Hussein told the assemblypersons to reserve their comments for a special session of the Rights and Privileges Committee, which is expected to table their recommendations for Utusan Malaysia to be barred from the assembly proceedings.

The session is expected to be held tomorrow, when a decision would be sought from the assemblypersons on whether the pro-Umno newspaper should be given the appropriate punishment. - Malaysiakini, 9/5/2011, Rep wants Utusan barred from Penang assembly

Withdraw reprimand against 'The Star'; repeal PPPA (CIJ)

Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) Malaysia27C Jalan Sarikei, off Jalan Pahang53000 Kuala LumpurWebsite: cijmalaysia.orgEmail: cijmalaysia@gmail.comTel: 03 4023 0772Fax: 03 4023 0769

22 March 2011

Media Release: Withdraw reprimand against 'The Star'; repeal PPPA

The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) regrets that yet another reprimand was issue by the Home Ministry to the press, this time to “The Star”.

“The Star” stated that it was reprimanded for a 9 March 2011 article on the impounding of 5,000 Bahasa Malaysia (BM) Bibles. “The Star” was reportedly reminded by the Home Ministry’s chief secretary Zaitun Abdul Samad that printing owners are required to comply with ministry directives under the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (PPPA).

It is unclear what directives “The Star” breached. The article entitled “5,000 Bibles still not returned, says group” essentially reported a statement by the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship secretary-general Sam Ang. Ang said 5,000 BM Bibles were confiscated by the Home Ministry in 2009, adding that they have still not been returned despite alleged Cabinet approval.

The holdup with the Bibles, reportedly due to their reference to “Allah” as God, is a curb by the government on the freedom of expression as well as the freedom of religion. Ang’s statement was in no way incendiary or inflammatory. It expressed the concern of a community whose constitutional freedoms have been infringed. In publishing the statement, “The Star” was doing its duty in monitoring power and allowing the aggrieved party its say. No Home Ministry directive should have such wide and far-reaching powers as to prohibit the publication of such a statement.

This incident highlights more than ever the need for the PPPA to be repealed. It is a serious infringement on media freedom when the government has the power to dictate to newspapers what they can or cannot report. The role of the media isto serve the public interest. The government’s ability to reprimand and deny newspapers licences for not following its instructions has only led to the continued erosion of the media’s ability to play this important role.

CIJ therefore calls on the Home Ministry to retract its reprimand to “The Star” and to cease issuing directives which interfere with the media’s public interest role. It is in the interest of the people that the media is free to report on statements as they see fit. Actions such as the Home Ministry’s recent interference will only impede the government’s declared aims of ensuring good governance, transparency and accountability and should therefore cease.

CIJ also calls on all Malaysians who value an independent media to hold the government accountable over the appalling state of media freedom in the country. With the general election expected this year, it is an opportune time to tell our elected representatives that we want the PPPA repealed.

For further information please contact CIJ Executive Officer Masjaliza Hamzah, Tel: 03 40230772, Fax: 03 40230769

The Centre for Independent Journalism, Malaysia (CIJ) is a non-profit organisation that aspires for a society that is democratic, just and free where all people will enjoy free media and the freedom to express, seek, and impart information.

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Centre for Independent Journalism Malaysia
Web: cijmalaysia.org
Tel: +603-4023 0772

Joint Media Statement:- "Utusan" must respect NUJ leader; call off domestic inquiry

Centre for Independent Journalism
Charter 2000-Aliran
Writers' Alliance for Media Independence
1 Muted Malaysia

Joint Media Statement (5 January 2011): "Utusan" must respect NUJ leader; call off domestic inquiry
We are four civil society groups speaking up in support of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) president Hata Wahari, who is facing a domestic inquiry by his employer, “Utusan Malaysia,” for being critical of political interference in the newspaper.

We echo the words of NUJ general secretary V Anbalagan that Hata was speaking in his capacity as a union official and thus merely exercising his rightful duty and fulfilling his national obligation. The management of “Utusan Malaysia” is as free to make a public rebuttal if it disagreed with Hata. It should not penalise Hata by subjecting him to a domestic inquiry that may result in him being fired.

According to Hata, the domestic inquiry notice followed two show-cause letters from the management – on 14 October 2010 and 14 November – in response to his first statement as NUJ president on 21 September. The domestic inquiry letter was dated 23 December, and received on 27 December.

Hata has been speaking out since he was elected to the top union position in September, and appears to be implementing his election manifesto, which includes engaging in efforts to abolish the draconian Printing Presses and Publications Act as well as promoting ethical reporting on religious and race issues. He also aimed to monitor newspapers that contravene journalism ethics in this regard (http://nujstar.org/?p=92). His first statement took to task senior editors of the much-criticised “Utusan Malaysia” for failing to advocate media freedom in their quest to serve the agenda of their political masters UMNO. His new year statement cited racist rhetoric in the same paper as the reason for the daily’s declining sale, and urged the authorities to act against the editors for inciting racial hatred.

We note that this is the first time in a long while since an NUJ leader has spoken up against unethical media practices, which he correctly blamed on the lack of media independence due to political interference and restrictive laws.

We believe that Hata was not only speaking up for the integrity of the profession, but for the right of all Malaysians to have a media that will put the people as their first loyalty, and truth as their first obligation, which means allowing as many different perspectives as possible so that the people can judge and decide for themselves what is truth.

We view any attempt to sack the union president for expressing his opinion in defence of journalistic integrity as a serious attack on the freedom of expression and media freedom.

We call on all journalists, unionised or not, to stand behind Hata and urge for the domestic inquiry, rescheduled to 17 January, to be called off.

Similarly, all Malaysians who want a free media must now speak up and stand in line together with the journalists.

Jointly issued by:
Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ)
Charter 2000-Aliran
Writers' Alliance for Media Independence (WAMI)
1 Muted Malaysia

For more information, contact: Masjaliza Hamzah, CIJ Executive Officer, 03-40230772; Anil Netto and Mustafa K Anuar, Charter 2000-Aliran coordinators, aliran@streamyx.com; Wong Chin Huat, WAMI chairperson, chinhuatw@gmail.com; or Josh Hong, 1 Muted Malaysia coordinator, ubikampong@gmail.com.

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CIJ is a non-profit organisation that aspires for a society that is democratic, just and free, where all peoples will enjoy free media and the freedom to express, seek and impart information. cijmalaysia.org

Charter 2000-Aliran is a group of Malaysian individuals and organisations committed to striving for media freedom in Malaysia through the promotion of a media charter to raise public awareness.

WAMI is a group of writers for the Chinese media in Malaysia, which aims to defend and promote media independence for freer public discussion and wider democratic space. It was formed by about 90 writers who quit writing for the mainstream Chinese media in May 2001 in protest over the coerced takeover of the non-partisan Nanyang Press by the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), a ruling coalition member party.

1 Muted Malaysia is a citizens’ initiative in response to the shrinking public space for expression as evidenced by series of book bans, sackings and arrests involving writers, media practitioners and artists.

Also see Malaysiakini report,

NUJ stands behind its chief who faces inquiry

Regina Lee
Jan 5, 11
1:38pm

 

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) is standing behind its president Hata Wahari, who is facing admonishment over his public statements against his employer, Utusan Malaysia.

Calling Utusan anti-union and having scant regard for justice, the union revealed that the top management of the daily had refused to allow “outside representatives” to assist Hata when he faces a domestic inquiry (DI) in two weeks.

This means that only an in-house representative from the Utusan branch of NUJ can assist Hata in the inquiry scheduled for Jan 17.

“We are of the view that Hata (right) has the right to be represented by an official from the NUJ since the Utusan branch is affiliated to the national body.

“Nowhere in the NUJ-UM collective agreement (2005-2008) is it stated that Hata could only be represented by someone from within the company,” general secretary V Anbalagan said in a statement.

Representing the entire executive committee which met in an emergency meeting last night to discuss the issue, Anbalagan also said he had previously tried to represent former Utusan NUJ branch leader Amran Ahmad when he was also hauled up before a DI, to no avail.

“All these show that Utusan is anti-union and has scant regard for justice and fair play,” he said.

In a strongly-worded statement, the union took more potshots at the Umno-owned daily, calling the DI “an act of victimisation of a union leader”.

“It is also aimed at crippling the NUJ leadership and to serve as a warning against Utusan-based journalists,” the statement said.

The union is also calling the DI to be brought forward immediately. The inquiry was initially fixed for tomorrow but was postponed to Jan 17.

“The union is disappointed with the Utusan management for having deferred Hata's DI. His alleged misconduct has been hanging over his head for the last two months,” it said.

It was previously reported that Hata had received his notice, which was dated Dec 23.

Not the first Utusan union leader in hot water

Hata is facing eight counts of misconduct for issuing statements to news portals Malaysiakini, The Malaysian Insider and Merdeka Review, and The Sun newspaper between Sept 21 and Oct 14 last year.

The notice said he stands accused of insulting the company's management and tarnishing the company's image following his comments that appeared in several publications.

Hata is a senior journalist with Utusan Malaysia and was elected NUJ president last September.

Since then, Hata has criticised Utusan several times for publishing pro-Umno propaganda and blamed its editorial policy for the daily's dwindling circulation.

If sacked, Hata would be the third Utusan employee to face the boot for his union activities. Former NUJ president Yazid Othman as well as the NUJ-Utusan chairperson Amran had previously been dismissed during their tenure in office.

“The NUJ still hopes that Utusan will seriously consider calling off the DI. We take the stand that Hata, in his capacity as NUJ president, issued the statements in defence of press freedom and the welfare of members.

“Utusan's stand is ludicrous as it claimed that Hata, as the employee of the company, had tarnished its image,” the statement added.

Section 6 of the Trade Unions Act says that “no suit shall lie against any public servant for anything done or omitted to be done by him in good faith without negligence and in intended exercise of any power or performance of any duty provided or imposed by this Act.” - Malaysiakini, 5/1/2011, NUJ stands behind its chief who faces inquiry

1Malaysia Ban? Pakatan Rakyat : Are you for freedom of expression, opinion, assembly or not?

Sometimes, I get disappointed with people who have always been championing for freedom of expression, opinion, assembly, freedom of the press, etc ....who sometimes just take the same anti-freedom actions against the BN when they do come into power. Denial of access of certain media to their functions...denying persons freedom to express their political opinions at their business premises. I say, everyone is free to put whatever posters, banners, etc - save those that are 'immoral', etc. I should be allowed to put up a poster/banner stating that I support the BN...or that I support PAS. I should be free to put up a poster stating 'Justice for Teoh Beng Hock'...I should be allowed to hang at my shop a flag of the party I support...why not? It saddens me when they use 'bad laws' to deny persons the freedom of expression...

Meanwhile, state's tourism, consumer affairs and environment exco Elizabeth Wong consider the government's ban as “simple and straightforward” as it is only limited to billboards and shopfront signages of commercial-related properties.

Wong ( left) cited section 17 of Shah Alam City Council (MBSA)'s local advertising by-laws, where she said commercial outlets are prohibited to feature advertisements that contain political messages. 

Political messages - advertising a poster calling for the repeal of the ISA, calling for Local Council Elections, asking for the resignation of the PM/MB, stating my support for the ISA, stating my support for PAS, having the.... Is there a law that states that I cannot have a large photo of the leader of my political party leader? I would have expected better from someone like Elizabeth Wong, who was a former coordinator of SUARAM, a human rights organisation. Political messages do not even have the requirement that it has to come from a political party. Can UMNO put up a banner officially asking people to vote UMNO in the next General Elections in Selangor - or will the Local Council say that such banners are banned...and not give the requisite permit? I say, if any political party wants to put up any banner...permission should be given by the relevant local councils and the banners should be put up... including a banner criticizing the current government (or even the Local Council) - that is what we call freedom of expression, opinion, etc..

Further the whole 1Malaysia concept is something that the people of Malaysia advocated for a long time - and only recently Najib adopted this.... as the BN logo, etc... Najib, UMNO, BN may have their own definition, meaning but that is their problem. Malaysians, for a long time since before Independence, desired a one Malaysia, and it has been some political parties that have done their best to keep different ethnic groups separate...all with their quotas, etc.. The people have always wanted one country one people... So, really Pakatan is barking up the wrong tree here...Do they not believe in one Malaysia?

Selangor state housing and local government exco Ronnie Liu has moved to quash the controversy over 1Malaysia logo being used in advertising materials by advising all local councils to hold back enforcing the ban until further notice.

Liu (right) said the temporary freeze is because of the confusion over which 1Malaysia logo is deemed to be conveying BN propaganda on advertising materials.

“There is still a grey area on what is regarded as political stunt by BN and what is not,” he told Malaysiakini in a phone interview.

According to Liu, many local councils are still unclear over the forms of advertising materials which are subjected to the ban.

He added that he would request a review on the ban at the next state cabinet meeting once Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim returns from vacation, which is expected to be in early January.

“Meanwhile, I advise all local councils to hold back their enforcement of the 1Malaysia logo,”

Liu has nevertheless expressed surprise when told that the Sabak Bernam district council has been enforcing the ban since June this year.

“So far as I know, only Kuala Langat District Council has started removing some billboards with 1Malaysia logo on them.

He insisted that Sabak Bernam was not enforcing the 1Malaysia logo ban.

“(For Sabak Bernam) I don't think they have enforced (the ban), I can still see many 1Malaysia logos in the place,” he said.

1Malaysia shopfront signage not allowed

Meanwhile, state's tourism, consumer affairs and environment exco Elizabeth Wong consider the government's ban as “simple and straightforward” as it is only limited to billboards and shopfront signages of commercial-related properties.

Wong (left) cited section 17 of Shah Alam City Council (MBSA)'s local advertising by-laws, where she said commercial outlets are prohibited to feature advertisements that contain political messages.

“BN has been campaigning along with 1Malaysia logo during the recent by-elections. The logo hence is part of political propaganda.”

Asked whether shopfront signage of 1Malaysia Klinik has breached the law, she said that while the wording of “1Malaysia” is allowed, the logo is not.

“I also disagree with the DAP café putting up their party logo,” said Wong, referring to a coffee shop in SS2, Petaling Jaya.

She said banners and buntings are exempted from the ban if they are used for political events such as ceramah.

Liu, on the other hand, refused to be drawn into commenting on Wong's opinion, and whether it reflects Selangor government's policy or just her own personal opinion.

“I will raise the issue at the next exco meeting,” said the DAP leader.

Liu on Wednesday said 1Malaysia was regarded as a political message and thus contravenes by-laws of the state's 12 local authorities.

"You don't see any billboard in Selangor carrying the PKR, PAS and DAP logos," Liu told the Star.

Ban under heavy fire

The move by Selangor to ban the 1Malaysia logo has come under heavy fire from BN leaders who claim that the Pakatan Rakyat administration was “scared” that the logo was gaining popularity.

Yesterday, Selangor menteri besar's political secretary Faekah Hussin (right) explained that the ban was a “political decision” to prevent the slogan from being used to cover up BN's wrongdoings.

It has been confirmed that at least seven local authorities - the municipal councils of Kuala Langat, Sabak Bernam, Ampang Jaya, Selayang, Klang, Kuala Selangor and Subang Jaya - have enforced the ban. - Malaysiakini, 25/12/2010, 1Malaysia logo ban 'frozen', says S'gor exco

The Selangor government ban on the use of the 1Malaysia logo on all billboards in the state reflects opposition fear of the concept, Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said today.

The 1Malaysia vision that Prime Minister Najib Razak expounds is increasingly popular and this scares the opposition, he added.

"They (the Selangor government) are afraid of the 1Malaysia logo which has become iconic to the people," he told reporters after attending a leaders-meet-the-people gathering in Lawas, Sarawak.

The 1Malaysia vision has noble intentions, one of which is to unite the people regardless of their political leaning, Muhyiddin (right) said.

Chairman of the Selangor Housing and Local Government Committee Ronnie Liu, announcing the ban yesterday, had said that the 1Malaysia logo had a political message and that a by-law prohibited political advertisements on billboards.

Muhyiddin was also asked to comment on documents produced by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz that refuted the allegations of Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim that 1Malaysia was the creation of Apco Worldwide which he claimed was also responsible for the One Israel concept.

One document was a letter from the public relations firm denying having anything to do with either concept while the other was a sworn statement from the consultant who claimed credit for the One Israel concept.

Muhyiddin said the opposition would continue to "twist the facts" despite the clarification.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Koh Tsu Koon said the ban contradicts the professed stance of the opposition parties on freedom of information and its communication to the people.

"1Malaysia is for all and it is to foster unity among the people. It should not be viewed politically," he told reporters after presenting prizes to winners of a competition in translating local Mandarin short stories into Bahasa Malaysia.

Legality of ban questioned

Information, Communication and Culture Minister Dr Rais Yatim questioned the legality of the ban, citing provisions in the federal constitution on the right of assembly and freedom to display logos.

He believed that the Selangor government was desperate to check the popularity of the 1Malaysia concept.

Selangor Umno information chief Shukor Idrus said the ban was a “backward action”.

He said that 1Malaysia was a concept for uniting Malaysians and the logo was not political.

MCA NGO liaison bureau chief Ti Lian Ker said that 1Malaysia was aimed at forging a united Malaysia, and the Selangor government should not try to obstruct achievement of that goal.

- Bernama - Malaysiakini, 23/12/2010, DPM: Opposition fears 1Malaysia

Wikileaks: Open & Transparent -v- 'Official Secrets'?

First, let us look at what really has been disclosed by Wikileaks - they are communications between persons in the US State Department. Some are opinions & some maybe facts especially when it is reporting what some said. It has been exposing the hypocrisy of the US,....and maybe also some other heads of States who say one thing to the people and another thing to their 'close circle', which may no longer include US Diplomats after this leak.

On the whole, the revelations have been good - but sadly the powerful are getting together and reacting to those responsible in disclosing all these information to us.
 
Any advocate for freedom of information, open transparent government will be for an era that governments should not be keeping 'secrets' from the people. And, so they would be in support of revelations of Wikileaks...

But, the 'super powers' (and maybe even other people in power [or those who hoped to be someday]) are really not at all happy about all these disclosures...

Of course, the best strategy is to discredit the source -- and thus the portraying of the main person of wiki leaks as a sex offender... People have forgotten the legal principle that all persons are innocent until proven guilty. Is Julian guilty? Well, for now he must be seen as innocent - until he has had his trial and have been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. At the same time, just because he is a 'celebrity' does not mean  that he is above the law. The victims too, in this case, is suffering because beyond the normal pressure  they are facing additional pressure as a result of this Wikileaks issue. {Charging an opponent with a sex crime is really not new for Malaysians. It was done in the Anwar Ibrahim case....)

The number of persons...countries that are getting 'hit' by these exposures is great...and of late even Anwar Ibrahim and PKR has been hit - but that should not affect of position - i.e. is it a good thing or is it a bad thing.

Well, these documents in UK, US, etc...normally also will be available to the public once it has been declassified many decades later. We learned a lot about Malaysia's early days and the communist party from the recent declassified documents of the UK government, did we not. I believe Dr Kua also wrote a book about this focusing very much on the May 13 1969 incident. What Wikileaks have done is just bring it all out early when the real good guys (or culprits) are still around and active... 

UMNO-led BN government has indoctrinated our minds in believing that there is a real need to keep 'secrets' from the ordinary people   - hence the Official Secrets Act, and we are still slaves  to this culture. Even after Pakatan Rakyat came into power, they have continued to keep 'secrets' from the people. Will they change? Will they learn to be totally open and transparent - will they disclose the detailed income expenditure accounts for their Local Councils?


What do we want? Open, Transparent and Accountable Government ....OR 'a little bit' Open, Transparent and Accountable Government? 

I wait to see how Pakatan Rakyat, PKR and Anwar will react to the recent Wikileaks exposure. I wait to see how you, my fellow Malaysians, will react...

When will Malaysians be treated like adults...and be allowed to enjoy freedom of expression/opinion, press freedom...

Again, there are moves taken by the UMNO-led BN government to further curb freedom of expression/opinion, press freedom and freedom of information. These moves may also be geared to enhance FEAR in Malaysians,  a fear that would generate the ideal all-accepting non-critical Malaysian, who really is not interested in issues of justice, human rights, accountability, transparency, democracy, etc - but just the EPL, good movies, and...

The very fact that there are no independent radio stations, community radio stations, television stations is an indication of  the state of freedom of expression/opinion, press freedom... The mainstream print media certainly is not at all very critical of any UMNO-led BN government policy and/or decisions. The fear of being shut down suddenly - as was done to the Star in 1987 still lingers in the mind of the owners - and this has even led to self-censorship, even beyond what the government wants.

The recent restrictions ...or is it 'banning' of the publications of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), PAS's Harakah and DAP's Rocket, amongst others, is just another spate of repression against universally recognized freedoms and rights. In fact, these actions against publications have been ongoing... 

The Home Ministry issued a reprimand and took action against 10 publications between January and June this year for violation of provisions in the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984, according to a statement today.

The publications were Harian Metro, Metro Ahad, Kosmo, Oriental Daily, China Press, Nanyang Siang Pau, Uthaya Surian, Suara Keadilan, Suara Perkasa and Harakah, secretary of the ministry's Publications Control and Quranic Text Division, Zaitun Abd Samad, said in the statement.- Malaysiakini, 10/7/2010, 10 publications run foul of Home Ministry

The Home Ministry yesterday suspended PKR organ Suara Keadilan's publishing permit for running foul of the Printing Presses and Publication Act (PPPA).

The ministry said in a statement that it was not satisfied with the explanation provided by the weekly tabloid. Therefore, its annual publishing permit, which expired yesterday, would not be renewed. - Malaysiakini, 2/7/2010, Home Ministry suspends Suara Keadilan's permit  

PAS mouthpiece Harakah says it will continue to publish despite its publication permit expiring yesterday.

"We will print as usual. The show-cause letter from the Home Ministry did not stipulate that we cannot continue publishing it," Harakah's acting chief editor Taufek Yahya said today. - Malaysiakini, 8/7/2010, And now, Harakah faces suspension

In a country, where there are a lot of 'secrets', and the ordinary person really has no way of getting information, confirmations....the truth. The only avenue, for getting information seems to be through Parliamentary questions - and it really is difficult to get MPs to ask the questions that you want answers to. And, sometime the answers given are really not even answers to the questions raised. If information was easily available, one could easily cross-check and discover the truth. If the UMNO-led BN was accessible, one could send an e-mail, pick up a phone or .... and get immediate clarifications/responses, and that will be good. But alas, the response time of government (if they ever respond..) is just too long, and no one is going to suppress information/'truth' that they have just because the Malaysian government is slow to respond.

And, if a statement is false - then, the appropriate response is to deny it in the media. [And, noting that the government's access to media is large - TV,Radio, etc..., there is no real risk of the people being deceived... ]

What about lies told by the government? ... 

NEP's success :- Was it not wrong to just tell us about equity distribution based on share ownership? What about land ownership amongst the different ethnic communities? What about the ethnic compositions of doctors, engineers, architects, accountants, teachers, ...other professionals? What about the ethnic ownership of the different economic sectors? What about the economic well-being of persons...and families - not just based based on ethnicity, something that will hide the fact that the policy had really enriched a small percentage among an ethnic group whilst the majority has hardly benefited. I wonder really how Razak's son (Najib's brother) and Mahathir's son are amongst the 40 most richest persons in Malaysia?   

There are more....and maybe all of it is just 'nothing' and could have been fires extinguishable by real transparency and information (now hidden away in the 'official secrets' closet)

We have been lied to so often by the UMNO-led BN government, and even some of the Opposition political parties and personalities, that Malaysians generally take everything with a 'pinch of salt' ... Among the opposition, some are trusted more than the rest.

If there is an assertion that you do not agree to...then respond with words..not the law, and let the people be the final judges of the truth. 

We really do not need an anti-false news panel....and look at who is in it. Let me pick on Rais Yatim  - as far as I know, he did not tell Malaysians that Malaysian Heritage Board was against the demolition of the Pudu Jail...did he not 'lie'? No...he did not lie, only hid from us opinions that did not support what he wanted to do ....i.e. tear down and destroy forever that historical site...[Pudu Jail: Government ignored National Heritage Board when they brought the walls down]

 

The Home Ministry has set up a committee to formulate the government's communication strategy besides thwarting the dissemination of false news by irresponsible people.

Its minister Hishammuddin Hussein said the committee was also made up of Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohamed Nazri Aziz and Information Communication and Culture Minister Rais Yatim.

He said the committee's secretariat was housed at the legal affairs division of the Prime Minister's Department.

"The government believes that if lies and false news churned out by irresponsible people continue unabated, these irresponsible people will think they are right while the public will continue to be deceived," he told reporters in Putrajaya today.

The committee met for the first time three days ago, during which it decided to create a high-level task force and meet at least once a month, he said, adding that Nazri and Rais attended the meeting.

Hishammuddin said the committee also discussed amendments to the laws, training of investigating officers, treatment of witnesses and the definition of false news.

In another development, Hishammuddin said the Home Ministry would implement the police station league to adjudge the performance and services of police stations nationwide.

"Police stations which display excellent performance will receive a recognition while the officers and policemen will receive incentives.

"This is aimed at promoting an excellent work culture and a healthy competition among police stations," he added.

- Bernama - Malaysiakini, 9/7/2010, Hisham, Nazri, Rais to head anti-false news panel