KUALA LUMPUR: Speculative news reporting is not new in journalism, and the report by news portal Malaysiakini alleging that Bukit Aman is planning a major reshuffle within the police force top leadership is neither malicious nor defamatory, says Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar.
The National Journalism Laureate pointed out that journalists frequently produce speculative reports on various topics, including potential Cabinet reshuffles or changes in corporate leadership.
"Personally, I do not see Malaysiakini's report as having any malicious intent or defamatory elements. I sincerely believe that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) remains highly respected and valued, and that the public continues to hold a deep interest in their actions.
"It’s possible that the significant public interest in the police force motivated the journalists to write the report, which I view as a compliment to the police,” he said in a statement Friday (Aug 9).
Johan was responding to the police summoning three journalists from the news portal earlier Friday to provide statements regarding the report, which alleged that Bukit Aman is planning a major reshuffle in the police’s top ranks.
Johan stressed that the report should not have provoked such a reaction from the police.
He said journalists should be able to perform their duties without fear or favour, as a free press is a cornerstone of a functioning democracy.
On Tuesday (Aug 6), a local news portal reported that sources had suggested that Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department Director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain were likely to be transferred to other agencies.
However, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has denied these claims. - Bernama
