Defend our media: Attack on journalist demands immediate action

THE broad daylight assault on veteran sports journalist Haresh Deol in Bangsar on Tuesday (Nov 24) is more than a criminal act; it is a disturbing signal of rising hostility towards journalists and the essential work they do.

Even if the motive remains unclear, the fact is undeniable: a journalist was attacked in a public space. We cannot minimise the implications.

The police must conduct a full, transparent, and uncompromising investigation. This incident cannot be brushed aside.

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It raises urgent questions about media safety and public security. The attack could easily have escalated into something far more tragic.

When violence unfolds in plain sight, in the middle of the day, it tells Malaysians that even ordinary public spaces are no longer guaranteed safe.

This undermines the fundamental right of every citizen to live without fear.

The media is the fourth estate, an essential pillar that upholds the checks and balances between the Executive, Administration and Judiciary.

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Journalists hold the powerful to account, illuminate wrongdoing, and speak truths that might otherwise remain buried.

Their work is not only valuable; it is indispensable to a functioning democracy. Investigative journalism should be protected and encouraged, never threatened or silenced.

The government has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to media freedom. That commitment must now translate into decisive action.

The police must identify and apprehend the assailants without delay, and they must investigate thoroughly whether this attack has any connection to the story Haresh was pursuing.

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An attack on one journalist is an attack on the entire media fraternity.

When individuals believe they can intimidate or silence journalists, and do so openly, in broad daylight, we must ask what other pressures or threats may be unfolding out of sight.

This incident must be treated with the utmost seriousness, not only to deliver justice to the victim, but to send an unambiguous message: Malaysia will not tolerate intimidation of the press, nor violence against any member of the public.

CHAN QUIN ER

MCA Information Chief

Wanita MCA Secretary-General