How can the FOI Bill review process be made meaningful, transparent, and inclusive?

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The FOI Bill Review Process Can Be Made Meaningful, Transparent, and Inclusive Through Substantive Consultations

Civil society groups have welcomed the government's intention to refer the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill 2026 to a parliamentary special select committee (PSSC). This referral, made under Standing Order 54(1) of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders, is seen as a positive step. However, for the review process to be truly meaningful, transparent, and inclusive, consultations must involve civil society organisations and other stakeholders in a substantive manner.
Substantive Stakeholder Engagement is Crucial

The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) executive director, Wathshlah Naidu, has emphasised that the review process must be more than a formality. She stated that consultations need to engage civil society organisations and other stakeholders in a substantive way. This implies that their input should be genuinely considered and integrated into the review of the Bill's details, merits, and principles, rather than being a superficial exercise.
The Role of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC)

The referral of the FOI Bill to a PSSC under Standing Order 54(1) of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders allows the committee to discuss the Bill's details, merits, and principles before its second reading. This specific type of committal is designed to facilitate a more thorough examination of the legislation. The process, therefore, should inherently lead to a review that is substantive, offering a deeper dive into the Bill's implications.
Ensuring Transparency and Inclusivity in the Review

While the committal under SO54(1) DRSO provides a framework for a more detailed review, ensuring transparency and inclusivity requires deliberate effort. This means that the PSSC's proceedings should be open to public observation where possible, and that the mechanisms for gathering and considering stakeholder feedback are clearly communicated. The involvement of organisations such as Article 19 and the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4 Centre), alongside endorsements from eleven other civil society organisations, highlights the broad interest and desire for active participation in shaping the FOI legislation.

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How can the FOI Bill review process be made meaningful, transparent, and inclusive?

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