Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s notable advancement to 88th place on the World Press Freedom Index is indicative of positive shifts within the nation’s media landscape, heralding improved freedom of speech.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam Public Relations Programme Coordinator, Melina Mahfuz, remarked that the improved ranking signifies the expanding role of media as watchdogs of government and public institutions-an essential component of a democratic system. She highlighted progress in information access, lessened pressures on journalists, and favorable changes in legal frameworks concerning freedom of speech. Mahfuz urged reforms to outdated laws like the Sedition Act 1948 and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, suggesting refinement to enhance Malaysia’s press freedom reputation globally.
Melina further advocated for strengthening laws related to media freedoms, enhancing transparency in information access, and promoting media literacy education as steps to further improve Malaysia’s rankings. Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) senior lecturer, Assoc Prof Dr Lee Kuok Tiung, viewed the rise in rankings as a rebound from the previous year, emphasizing the need for strengthened social media controls to combat fake news.
Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) president, Datuk Yong Soo Heong, described the improved ranking as a significant development reflecting greater media freedoms in the country. He encouraged local media to be more creative while adhering to responsible principles, fostering inclusive and genuine storytelling crucial for promoting interethnic dialogue and national development.
Kuching Journalists Association vice president, Zulazhar Sheblee, welcomed the ranking rise but cautioned against complacency, emphasizing the need to strengthen media freedoms, protect journalists, and reduce political pressure. He underscored the importance of curbing social media abuse to protect mainstream media’s reputation.
Sabah Journalists Association President, Mariah Doksil, also saw the ranking improvement as positive but stressed fulfilling media rights outlined in Article 19 of the United Nations Declaration. She noted that while media freedoms exist in Sabah, access to critical information remains limited due to bureaucratic hurdles.
The new rankings by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) place Malaysia second in the ASEAN region, behind Thailand, which ranks 85th.