Media harassment at Pakatan convention a disgrace to Johor values, PH must be accountable

THE incident involving media practitioners allegedly being shoved, verbally provoked and obstructed while carrying out their duties during the recent Pakatan Harapan (PH) Convention in Johor is a serious matter.

Such misbehaviour is unacceptable and should never happen in Johor, a state built on the values of mutual respect, civility and harmony regardless of background, in line with the Bangsa Johor spirit – where there will never be room for violence, rude, aggressive or intimidating behaviour.

The media plays a vital role in any democratic society. Journalists serve as the people’s eyes and ears by reporting facts, conveying public concerns and ensuring accountability. They are merely performing their professional responsibilities during interviews and news coverage, and should never be subjected to intimidation, aggression or interference.

Based on reports, members of the Convention’s security team allegedly acted aggressively towards journalists, including female reporters, by pushing and obstructing them while tensions escalated into verbal confrontations. This not only undermines press freedom, but also damages the dignity and professionalism of the media fraternity.

What is particularly disappointing is that PH has for years portrayed itself as a coalition that champions democracy, media freedom and institutional reform. Its leaders frequently criticised others over restrictions on press freedom and promised a more open and progressive political culture.

Yet incidents involving hostility or obstruction towards journalists have surfaced repeatedly at events linked to Pakatan Harapan over the years. Why has nothing been learnt from these past incidents?

If PH truly believes in the principles it has long preached, then respect for journalists must begin with its own events and supporters. Political organisers and security personnel must understand that media practitioners are not adversaries, but an essential pillar in a functioning democracy.

PH leaders can ill-afford to brush aside this latest incident lightly. As the organiser of the convention, they owe a clear explanation and accountability to the journalists involved as well as to the wider Malaysian media fraternity.

MCA Youth fully supports the Johor Media Club (JMC) for lodging a police report and pursuing legal action over the matter. The Johor state government, MCA and MCA Youth will continue standing firmly with journalists in defending their right to work freely and safely without fear or intimidation.

The people cannot accept a situation where journalists risk their safety simply for carrying out their responsibilities. I call on the authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation and to take appropriate action against anyone found responsible.

LING TIAN SOON

MCA National Youth Chairman

Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman