No wrong in summoning Malaysiakini journalist, says Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR: The police’s action in summoning Malaysiakini journalists regarding the recent report on the leadership changes within the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) does not contradict the rights of journalists to report, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

He stated that there is no issue with the police inquiring about the identity of sources during an investigation, as that is their right.

“Journalists are allowed to maintain their position of not disclosing their sources.

“Journalists have the right to report, but the police also have the right to investigate under the law. They can continue to defend their reports or sources when questioned, and then respond. There is no issue,” he said.

He made these remarks at a press conference following the Launch and Release Ceremony of the Merdeka Jalur Gemilang Convoy (KMJG) 2024 for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at the Lembah Pantai Community Center.

Fahmi also denied that the image of the media industry would be affected by such incidents, especially following Malaysia’s decline in the media freedom index.

“Ranking is not solely based on a country’s performance but on relative performance compared to other countries as calculated by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

“Even if we are at the same level based on metrics, if other countries show progress, our position will drop,” he said.

Yesterday, three Malaysiakini journalists were summoned to the Dang Wangi Police Headquarters regarding a report published by the portal.

The report, which cited sources, alleged that PDRM was planning a major reshuffle involving the transfer of its top officials to other agencies, including the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.

However, the Inspector-General of Police, Razarudin Husain, denied the allegations.