Press for more freedom

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WORLD Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on 3 May, and with this year’s theme “Media for Democracy” – it is time to reflect on the hopes and challenges faced by the press in our region and particularly in Malaysia Baharu, where the Pakatan Harapan government promised more transparency, accountability and the repeal of oppressive laws which have previously silenced the press and dissenting views.

A vibrant and free press is essential to any modern society, because it allows us to share and expand our knowledge, have important conversations on issues of public concern, and hold those in power to account. Freedom of speech, and particularly freedom of the press, must include the right to express unpopular or challenging views as well as those which follow mainstream narratives. The rewards are reaped not only by journalists, but by us, the citizens and people of the world, who have a right to be informed and participate in public life.