Exercise restraint and understanding in handling Bloomberg journalist case - Johan Jaaffar

Media statement by Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar, Veteran Journalist, National Journalism Laureate:

I am urging the police to exercise restrain, caution and understanding in handling the case involving a Bloomberg journalist, Ram Anand.

I fully understand the sensitivity involving the case and the controversy resulting from the news report on purported plans to build a casino in Forest City, Johor Bahru. All parties mentioned in the report have so far denied the story. It is their right to do so.

Ram Anand is fully responsible for the story and must be held accountable for his reporting. However he is governed by professional ethics to ensure fairness and honesty in gathering, reporting and writing the news. Above all, he must take responsibility for the accuracy of his work.

From what I gather, Ram Anand is one of three journalists who contributed to the story.

The Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said on Friday that Bukit Aman’s classified crime investigation unit would be recording a statement from Ram Anand. He said the matter was being investigated for sedition, criminal defamation and the misuse of network facilities.

I always believe that safeguarding media freedom is paramount in a democracy like ours. After all a free press is critical to ensure a functioning democracy. The media plays a crucial role as a check and balance and to be the beacon of truth.

It is unfortunate that in the latest World Press Freedom Index we have plummeted to 107th placing from 73rd last year. It should be a wake-up call for media practitioners and the government alike.

I sincerely hope that press freedom is fully understood by all and that media practitioners are allowed to report without fear and favour. The press has the right and moral obligation to call figures in the public eye to account.

There are however avenues to hold any media organisation responsible for their reporting but certainly not through intimidation and retaliation. The government should refrain from using state apparatuses and archaic laws to stifle press freedom in the country. That has been promised by the current government.

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** The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of Astro AWANI.