PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry has pledged to adopt a more consultative approach over publication bans.
The ministry said it would hold discussions with publishers before any enforcement action is taken against their publications.
"This is among improvements to ensure a more transparent and constructive process," it said in a statement on Friday (April 24) after an engagement session with the Malaysian Book Publishers Association (Mabopa) held on April 21.
The ministry said it would review and reassess existing prohibition orders on publications that have been gazetted, taking into account feedback and proposals from industry stakeholders.
It said that while it respects and welcomes creative expression and intellectual discourse, all publications must comply with existing laws and must not contain elements that could threaten public order and societal harmony.
"As the ministry entrusted with safeguarding security and public order, every publication must adhere to legal provisions and avoid content that may undermine harmony and public well-being," it said.
