A battle is raging in Malaysia over the World Press Freedom Index between Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and Bersatu leader Wan Saiful Wan Jan.
“Unlike Israel, we don’t kill people like what is happening in Gaza,” the minister said in response to Wan Saiful’s criticism that Malaysia, ranked at 107, fared worse than Israel at 101.
“We also don’t shut down any media outlets like what happened yesterday when Israel shut down and searched Al Jazeera's office,” he added.
Wan Saiful had blamed Fahmi (above) for the decline in the ranking. Malaysia had dropped 34 places since last year.
According to Bernama, the minister said while he accepted the press freedom report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in good faith, it should not be regarded as the gold standard.
Fahmi said the government will study RSF proposals regarding appropriate measures to improve Malaysia’s position in the index.
The minister also welcomed the readiness of the international NGO to collaborate with Malaysia.
“We may not necessarily accept their proposals outright but will thoroughly review and see what is suitable for Malaysia,” he added.
There are laws
Fahmi explained that the World Press Freedom Index issue concerned not only the Communications Ministry but also laws under several other ministries.
“For example, issues related to the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) community. We know Malaysia’s stance on this issue and the suitability of some matters within the Asean mould or Eastern customs,” he added.
On Saturday, Fahmi said Malaysia’s ranking, though not satisfactory, was still better than the previous administrations.
Malaysia ranked 144 in 2017, 145 in 2018, 123 in 2019, 119 in 2021, 113 in 2022 and 73 last year. - Mkini
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