Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s notable 19-place advancement in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, as reported by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), highlights international acknowledgment of the country’s efforts to establish the Malaysian Media Council, stated Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. The act to create the Council has been approved by both Houses of Parliament earlier this year, aiming at promoting independent, responsible, and professional journalism.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia now ranks 88th, becoming the second-highest ranked nation in ASEAN for press freedom, just behind Thailand at 85th. The RSF report emphasizes that online platforms have complicated the information landscape by spreading manipulated and misleading content, thus amplifying disinformation.

Teo further mentioned that the global press freedom average has fallen below 55 points for the first time, categorizing the situation as ‘difficult.’ Despite these global challenges, Malaysia’s improved ranking demonstrates that advancement in press freedom is achievable.

“While we recognize that we still have a long way to go, this year’s improvement shows that progress is possible,” she affirmed. The Ministry remains dedicated to fostering an environment in Malaysia where press freedom and social responsibility coexist, ensuring that varied voices are both heard and respected.

Teo also noted Malaysia’s progress in updating media-related legislation, particularly the 2024 amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. These revisions provide more precise definitions, excluding satire, parody, and fiction from being labeled as false information, thus safeguarding creative expression and legitimate commentary.