KLANG: The fourth estate must remain free from fear or favour, and journalists must be able to do their jobs without hindrance, says the Malaysian Bar.
"It is incompatible with the rule of law for journalists and the media to be subjected to arrest or investigation for doing their jobs," said Bar president Anand Raj.
In a statement on Friday (April 3), he expressed the Bar’s concerns over the arrest of Thinathanthi journalist Kalidas Subramaniom and the investigation into Malaysiakini journalist B. Nantha Kumar.
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Both reporters were investigating issues involving migrant workers.
He said subjecting the journalists to detention and inquiries threatens press freedom and the rule of law, and that the developments had shocked the Malaysian Bar.
Anand noted that the media’s right to seek and disseminate information is protected by Article 19 of both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
"The Malaysian Bar reiterates its call for Malaysia to ratify the ICCPR, consistent with its commitment to uphold fundamental liberties and the rule of law," he said.
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He added that Malaysia’s low ranking of 88th in the World Press Freedom Index is worrying, and Reporters Without Borders has consistently described the country’s media environment as "problematic".
"The Malaysian Bar calls for the authorities to ensure that all investigations are conducted strictly in accordance with the rule of law, without hindering journalistic work or intimidation," he said.
He added that a free media is inseparable from democracy and is a crucial prerequisite of the rule of law.
