THE decision to bar Perikatan Nasional-linked podcasters from covering the Selangor state assembly sitting triggered a clash between Opposition assemblymen and the Speaker on Tuesday (April 28).
In his opening address, Speaker Lau Weng San (pic) said he had received reports of podcasters aligned with the Opposition coalition attending the session to cover the proceedings.
“I want to stress that media personnel require written permission to be inside the state government building and to cover the assembly.
“After reviewing the reports, I have decided such podcasts will not be allowed to continue.
"I urge Perikatan assemblymen to inform their media representatives ahead of the next session in August,” he said.
The announcement drew a protest from Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali (PN-Hulu Kelang), who questioned the basis of the decision and sought details on the complainants.
“You must realise that Selangor is a democratic state,” he said.
“The sitting is livestreamed and we have nothing to hide.
“Even if the podcast is not filmed here, it can still be done elsewhere.
"If this state government is strong, it should not be afraid of coverage;” said Azmin.
In response, Lau stressed that he was not obliged to disclose further details of the reports and insisted that no application was submitted by Perikatan to allow its podcasters access to the sitting.
“All media -- whether from Amanah, Umno or MCA -- must submit a written application.
"We have granted access to outlets that complied with this requirement.
“I urge Perikatan to observe this rule ahead of the next session in August," the Speaker reiterated.
Apparently unsatisfied, Azmin asked whether approval could be guaranteed if an application were submitted.
Lau said any application would be considered and reviewed carefully.
