KUALA LUMPUR: Authorities must not abuse their powers in dealing with the media and online content, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
He urged regulators, including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), to refrain from using their powers to silence critics or intimidate journalists and social media users.
“In a democratic society, the media is the fourth estate. Media freedom and the people’s right to speak up are very important,” he said at MCA Media Nite 2026 yesterday.
Dr Wee said he was worried by recent developments involving media content and online postings. He cited the removal of several MCA videos as well as action taken against Malaysian lawyer, columnist and commentator Ang Woei Shang, whose Facebook content was allegedly blocked.
“If there is a crime, then charge the person in court and let the law take its course. But there should not be undemocratic pressure or arbitrary action,” he said.
Dr Wee said reports of media executives and editors being summoned, ordinary users being called in by the police, phones being seized and people being fined or facing legal action for their online comments were “very troubling”.
“We hope that in future, especially the relevant authorities like MCMC, will not misuse their powers or act as they please,” he added.
Dr Wee stressed that while journalists must report responsibly and avoid defamation, they must also be allowed to carry out their duties without fear.
“The media provides space for public discourse. For MCA as a political party, we have always respected this space and the people’s voice,” he said.
The event that was held in conjunction with both the Ramadan month and Chinese New Year festivities recorded the highest ever turnout of MCA media partners, with the presence of hundreds of media practitioners.
Dr Wee congratulated the media fraternity for its continued support, saying he was confident journalists would “do their best for Malaysian society”.
Also present were deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon and secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon.
