AG wants more input, proposals to review laws

Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail said it was about time for the stakeholders to step up efforts in exploring all possible ways and means on how Malaysians in general, could better translate the concept of functional democracy, without compromising national interest.

"We need to be courageous to face changes and transformation in our quest for better prospect, even though this means having to leave our comfort zone," noted Abdul Gani during his closing remarks at a three-day conference today, on the Transformation of Security and Fundamental Rights Legislation at a hotel here.

He said Malaysian laws were no longer just a mere tool to regulate people, but an instrument to mould behaviour and norms.

"Regulatory issues, civil liberties and individual responsibility are thus, of great importance and need to be addressed to attain the right balance and achieve the desired equilibrium," he said.

Speaking on new laws intended to replace existing ones, Abdul Gani reiterated it would be done within the parameters of Article 10 of the Federal Constitution.

He said laws related to the freedom of expression would be made, in accordance with the proper legal procedures to address current needs.

"Amendments have been made to the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku) to endow students and student bodies with greater freedom of expression and association, apart from enhancing their rights and responsibilities.

"These amendments allow students to actively participate in political activities outside the university. This limitation is made, upon the consideration that universities, being the highest learning institution, should remain apolitical in the interest of the nation. One should act responsibly," stressed Gani.

Commenting on one of the issues discussed in the new media at the conference, he said the abuse of the new media was clearly seen from rising complaints regarding acts committed by irresponsible persons such as cyber crimes involving false, misleading, obscene or indecent information.

He said, although the new media attracted users, mainly due to its features, the people should not just look at individual fundamental rights but also the rights of the nation.

Later, speaking to reporters, he said participants of the conference were concerned with individual rights of Malaysians, in general, and his office welcomed their views and ideas.

"They can e-mail or write to us, where their inputs can be taken into consideration when we are drafting or amending the laws," added Abdul Gani.

On the proposed media council, he said, eight meetings had so far, been held, including meetings with bloggers and the Foreign Correspondents Club Malaysia.