PETALING JAYA: The action to detain former journalist Rex Tan is unnecessary and punitive in nature, says the Malaysian Media Council.
It said that Tan had publicly apologised and resigned from Free Malaysia Today (FMT) over the matter, and had indicated his willingness to cooperate with the police.
“In this context, his arrest and detention appear unnecessary and punitive,” the council said in a statement yesterday.
It added that the case raised broader concerns about the risks faced by media professionals, including whether a journalist could be deemed to have committed sedition or caused public mischief, simply by asking a question at a public forum.
“Such incidents, the council said, highlight the growing occupational and legal risks faced by journalists here, who may become the subject of investigations, detention and other punitive measures, even while merely performing their duties.
“Such risks can cause severe psychological and professional pressure, undermining the ability of journalists to work freely and safely,” the statement read.
The council said that heavy-handed action against media practitioners could have a chilling effect on public discourse.
It also said such actions reflected poorly on a government that had repeatedly pledged to uphold freedom of expression and press freedom.
The council urged the police and the government to exercise restraint and adopt a proportionate and just approach in handling such matters.
It also urged authorities to refrain from punitive actions that undermine journalistic work, media freedom, and the broader safety and professional security of journalists.
Meanwhile, Tan was released from police custody after being arrested early yesterday.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk M. Kumar said he was released after his statement was recorded and his mobile phone was seized to assist investigations.
“A total of three police reports had been filed against him,” he said when contacted.
Tan is currently being investigated under the Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948, Section 505(c) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
On Friday, media reports said Tan had resigned a day after he publicly apologised for the question he posed during the lecture, which sparked widespread controversy.
