Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil today expressed hope to forge a better working relationship with the press.
In a press conference, he said incidences like his recent altercation with a daily over its analysis report should be taken as a lesson for improvement.
"With regards to any specific episodes, you know, we learn from these incidences and hope to work together in a much better working relationship, to make sure we address the issues faced by the rakyat in a good manner," the minister said.
In March, Fahmi described Berita Harian's analytical report on the country's overnight policy rate as a "slander".
The comment had attracted criticisms from groups representing journalists in the country, including the National Union of Journalists, who viewed the minister's remark as an attack on press freedom.
His response to the issue today came after Fahmi was asked to comment on Putrajaya's promise to respect media freedom in the country, and specifically his open rebuke against the analytical report.
Improved ranking
Earlier during the presser, Fahmi had praised the country's performance in its media freedom after Malaysia ranked 73 in the Reporters Without Border's (RSF) 2023 World Press Freedom Rankings, up from the 113 attained last year.
Describing it as positive news, Fahmi said the new government and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are committed to upholding press freedom in the country.
When asked about the government’s commitment towards abolishing the Printing Presses and Publications Act (PPPA) - an archaic law that regulates the media - Fahmi said Putrajaya has not made a decision on the matter.
"I think as far as the government is concerned, at this point, we have not made any decision with regards to the review requested," he said.
In its election manifesto, Pakatan Harapan had promised to review and abolish laws that restrict freedom of speech, including the PPPA.
However, since it came into power leading the unity government in November, little effort has been made towards realising the pledge.
Last month, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail reportedly said that the Act is still needed to ensure public peace. - Mkini
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