KPKT RESPECTS MEDIA FREEDOM, APPRECIATES IMPORTANT ROLE OF DELIVERING ACCURATE INFORMATION

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has reiterated its commitment to always respect media freedom and appreciate the important role of media practitioners in delivering accurate and authentic information to the people.

In a statement today, KPKT informed that the ministry appreciated the contribution of local and international media through the coverage provided, as well as respecting the freedom of journalists to ask questions during the press conference.

“However, KPKT would like to clarify that the party answering the question should also have the space to respond to each question posed.

“In addition, prudent reprimands to ensure the accuracy of facts and mutual understanding are also methods of togetherness in order to achieve the objectives of the government’s programme and policies,” according to a statement from KPKT.

The statement from KPKT informed that the press conference held for the launch of the Lighting Innovation Project Towards Urban Sustainability in conjunction with Visit Malaysia (TMM) 2026 or I LITE U, among other things, aims to strengthen the country’s tourism promotion efforts, in addition to attracting the attention of international tourists to the uniqueness and iconic attractions, especially in the capital.

“As a sign of commitment in upholding the dignity of Bahasa Melayu as the national language, the entire press conference by Nga was conducted in Bahasa Melayu, including a speech by the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur (Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif).

On Oct 29, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Meng was reported to have threatened a journalist after he asked about the use of English for the I LITE U tourism theme held in conjunction with TMM 2026.

Following this, the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) yesterday issued a statement condemning the minister's actions.

Today, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fazil said journalists have the right to ask any questions in carrying out their duties in line with the principles of openness and mutual respect between the media and the government, besides informing that the matter had been discussed in the Cabinet meeting.

-- BERNAMA