Malaysiakini recalls reporter from Sibu for safety reasons

Malaysiakini has recalled its reporter Kow Gah Chie from Sibu for safety reasons.

Malaysiakini editor-in-chief Steven Gan today said that the decision was made following the circulation of Kow’s photograph on social media, after she had written an allegedly misleading article quoting BN Nangka assemblyman Annuar Rapaee.

“While we have recalled Gah Chie for safety reasons, Malaysiakini will continue covering the Sarawak election with a number of other journalists,” said Gan.

The article published last Thursday suggested that Annuar had asked Sarawakians to vote for BN in the state election, "so that a Muslim leader can continue to lead the Sarawak government.”

Later the same day, Annuar however said his words has been allegedly taken out of context.

Malaysiakini stands by its report that also quoted Annuar as having denied that he is playing the race and religious card.

Sarawak police had reportedly confirmed that Kow is being investigated under Section 505(c) of the Penal Code.

The New Straits Times today quoted Sarawak Criminal Investigation Department senior assistant commissioner Dev Kumar as saying that the case is being investigated based on six reports lodged against Kow.

Dev, however, also told The New Straits Times that he could not confirm reports circulating on social media which suggested that the reporter had allegedly left the state abruptly yesterday.

"We are unaware that she had been asked to leave Sarawak by her employer," he reportedly said.

Gan, meanwhile, said that the police reports were the latest attempts to intimidate journalists in Malaysia.

“This is aimed at bringing a chilling effect on media ahead of the state polls. We should not bow to such harassment," stressed Gan.

Section 505(c) of the Penal Code refers to investigations on whoever makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report with intent to incite or which is likely to incite any class or community of persons to commit any offence against any other class or community of persons. -Mkini