MMC URGES FAIR PROBE INTO JOURNALIST’S TRESPASS ARREST

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) has stressed that the investigation process involving a journalist over alleged trespass at a factory construction site in the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), Kulim must be conducted transparently, professionally and with respect for journalists’ right to perform their duties without undue interference or pressure.

In a statement tonight, the council said any action against journalists must be strictly assessed based on the principles of necessity and proportionality, and it is crucial to clearly distinguish between actual legal violations and legitimate journalistic activities.

“MMC emphasises that in many circumstances, journalistic work, including being present at the scene, making observations and gathering information, forms part of the legitimate function of the media in reporting issues of public interest.

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“Therefore, the interpretation of ‘trespass’ in the context of news coverage must be carefully clarified to avoid criminalising the work of journalists,” the oversight body, adding that it will continue to monitor developments in the case.

According to the statement, the case also raises broader questions regarding journalists’ access to locations and events of public interest, as well as the need for clear guidelines between authorities and media practitioners.

The media previously reported that a journalist from Tamil news portal Thinathanti, Kalidas Subramaniom, was detained by police at the Kulim district police headquarters (IPD) in connection with alleged trespass while covering issues related to undocumented migrants.

Police have confirmed the arrest of 10 men, including a portal journalist, to assist in investigations into alleged trespass at the factory construction site last Wednesday.

-- BERNAMA