Could harsher OSA penalties endanger national security?

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Harsher Official Secrets Act penalties could potentially endanger national security by suppressing information on government abuses.

Malay rights group Perkasa has voiced concerns that proposed increases to penalties under the Official Secrets Act (OSA), including life imprisonment, could inadvertently endanger national security. The group argues that attempts to conceal abuses within the administration, rather than safeguarding genuine secrets, could lead to public dissatisfaction and instability. Perkasa suggests that exposing information related to corruption, embezzlement, and fraudulent practices is not inherently a threat to national security.
Questioning the Rationale for Increased Penalties

Perkasa has openly questioned the Attorney-General's stated motives for seeking harsher penalties under the OSA. The group specifically highlighted the proposed introduction of life imprisonment for individuals leaking official documents and for media personnel reporting on these leaks. They find it suspicious that exposing information on issues such as tender irregularities, non-compliant business practices, corruption, embezzlement, and fraud would be classified as matters of national security.
Suspicions of Motives Beyond National Security

The Malay rights group posits that the proposed amendments are likely driven by a desire to mitigate public discontent stemming from the exposure of administrative abuses through leaks. Rather than genuinely protecting national security, Perkasa suggests the move aims to suppress information that could fuel public dissatisfaction. This perspective aligns with concerns raised by press groups, who view the proposed changes as an attempt to intimidate the media and deter reporting on government wrongdoings.
Potential for Public Unrest Due to Information Concealment

Perkasa has expressed significant concern that a greater national security threat could emerge if the government attempts to conceal information on embezzlement through amendments to the OSA. The group warns that such actions could lead to public revolt and dissatisfaction, creating a more profound security issue than the information leaks themselves. They advocate for enhanced legal protections for whistleblowers who expose government misconduct, believing this would foster good governance and public trust.
Attorney-General's Stance on Information and Penalties

Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Apandi Ali has indicated his willingness to consider increased penalties for leaking official secrets, including life imprisonment and caning. He has also stated that proposed amendments to the OSA would extend to journalists who refuse to identify their sources of leaked information. The Attorney-General has further asserted that the Federal Constitution does not grant an explicit right to information.

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Could harsher OSA penalties endanger national security?

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