What is the impact of police threats on media freedom in Malaysia?

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Police Threats Against Media Undermine Media Freedom and Public Discourse in Malaysia

Twelve civil society organisations (CSOs) have strongly condemned the Gombak police chief's threat to sue Free Malaysia Today (FMT), viewing such actions as an unacceptable attack on media freedom and freedom of expression in Malaysia. These threats not only hinder journalists from reporting on matters of public importance but also infringe upon the public's right to discuss critical issues, such as deaths in police custody. The CSOs argue that these actions are a direct violation of constitutional guarantees and undermine the crucial role of a free press in a democratic society.
CSOs Condemn Legal Threats Against Reporting

A coalition of twelve civil society organisations, including prominent groups like Amnesty International Malaysia, the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ), TENAGANITA, Suaram, and Sisters in Islam, have voiced their disapproval of outgoing Gombak police chief Arifai Tarawe's intention to sue Free Malaysia Today (FMT). The CSOs issued a joint statement highlighting that it is unacceptable for law enforcement to harass or threaten journalists and media outlets when they are performing their duty to report on issues of public significance. This stance underscores a deep concern over potential abuses of power that could stifle legitimate news reporting.
Public Right to Discuss Sensitive Issues Impinged

The CSOs emphasised that the public's right to discuss and comment on sensitive issues, particularly concerning deaths in police custody, is being jeopardised by such legal threats. Data from the human rights organisation Suaram indicates a persistent problem, with at least eight cases of deaths in police custody documented in 2020 alone, and a staggering total of 104 such deaths recorded between 2011 and 2018. By threatening legal action, authorities risk creating an environment of fear that discourages public scrutiny and open dialogue on systemic issues, which is vital for accountability and reform.
Threats Constitute Attack on Media Freedom and Expression

These legal actions and threats are perceived by the CSOs as a direct assault on media freedom and a violation of the fundamental right to freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. The specific case involves Arifai demanding RM10 million and an apology from FMT over two articles related to his transfer. He alleges the articles negatively portrayed his integrity and implied his and the police's responsibility for the death of A. Ganapathy, a claim he previously contested by stating there was no evidence Ganapathy died in police custody. This situation raises serious questions about the use of defamation lawsuits as a tool to silence critical reporting.

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What is the impact of police threats on media freedom in Malaysia?

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