Can MPs still comment on politics freely outside the media centre?

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MPs Retain Freedom to Comment on Politics Outside Parliament Media Centre

Members of Parliament (MPs) are still free to comment on political matters and speak to reporters outside the Parliament media centre, with new guidelines intended to prevent the misuse of the facility for partisan purposes rather than to curb freedom of speech. The Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, clarified that these restrictions specifically apply only within the designated media centre.
Guidelines Target Partisan Misuse, Not General Speech

The newly implemented guidelines for the Parliament media centre are designed to ensure that the facility is used for its intended purpose: discussing public and government affairs. The Speaker explicitly stated that these rules are not meant to restrict MPs' freedom of speech but to prevent the centre from being exploited for partisan political activities, such as criticizing specific politicians or engaging in commentary solely for political gain.
Advance Notice and Approval Required for Media Centre Use

To use the Parliament media centre, MPs are now required to submit an application at least two working days in advance. This application must receive written approval from the Speaker's Office or the Corporate Communications Division. This procedure is in place to manage the facility's usage and ensure compliance with its designated purpose, which is for comments on public and government matters.
Restrictions Apply Solely Within the Media Centre

The Speaker emphasized that the prohibitions against unauthorized 'doorstep interviews' and partisan political commentary are confined to the Parliament media centre itself. MPs are not prevented from engaging with journalists or discussing political issues in other areas within or outside the Parliament complex. The Speaker noted that while such discussions outside the centre are an MP's right, informing Parliament beforehand is advisable to preempt potential scheduling conflicts or confrontations between different political parties.

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Can MPs still comment on politics freely outside the media centre?

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