Communications Minister: Government acknowledges RSF’s concerns on media freedom but remains firm on laws against misinformation and 3R issues.

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said today the government is taking seriously concerns raised by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) over Malaysia’s press freedom ranking.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding media freedom, Fahmi stressed that enforcement of existing laws against misinformation and sensitive content would continue.

“We take RSF’s comments into account, but at the same time, we are applying the laws already in place,” he said.

Fahmi added that RSF’s concerns, particularly regarding legislation and political influence on coverage involving race, religion, and royalty — known as 3R issues — would be reviewed.

“We need to strike a balance. We cannot permit inaccurate information on 3R topics that could stir public unrest,” he said.

Malaysia’s improved position in RSF’s 2024 World Press Freedom Index — rising 19 spots to 88th out of 180 — has still drawn criticism from civil society groups, who point to increasing self-censorship among journalists reporting on sensitive matters.

‍

The country moved from the “difficult” to “problematic” category with a score of 56.09, compared to 52.07 and 107th place last year.

‍

RSF highlighted economic instability as a major global threat to press freedom, noting that more than half the world’s population now lives in countries where journalism is either dangerous or entirely suppressed.

‍

Fahmi acknowledged these realities but cited recent efforts — including the proposed formation of the Malaysian Media Council — as steps toward reform.

‍

“Our goal isn’t only to improve our ranking, but to address fundamental issues affecting the media, such as job security and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence,” he said.

“We must curb the spread of false news while also safeguarding the welfare of media professionals,” he added.