Stand Up for Fairness, Mr. Speaker
A Call for Transparency and Openness in Covering Malaysian Parliament
The speaker of the House, Azhar Azizan Harun, has a crucial role in ensuring that democracy flourishes in Malaysia. As we approach a long-awaited meeting of Parliament, it is essential to scrutinize the representation of the media.
A Nation in Crisis
Over the past seven months, the country has faced a state of emergency, numerous lockdowns, a healthcare system on the verge of collapse, and a record number of COVID-19 cases. As a result, it is crucial for the public to be informed about the discussions and decisions made in Parliament.
Your Right to Know
Free Malaysia Today (FMT) has consistently provided unbiased reporting on parliamentary affairs and has a significant readership. Despite this, the speaker has decided to invite only a select few to cover the upcoming meeting, leaving out FMT and the Malay Mail. This is concerning, given the portal’s reach and commitment to fair and unbiased reporting.
A Select Few
The excuse that the media must be limited to minimize COVID-19 risk does not hold water, considering the available space in the media center. Instead, only 72 people have been allowed to attend, with a significant number coming from RTM and Bernama. This is puzzling, given that most of the information from these sources can already be accessed online.
A Fairness Issue
The real reason for denying FMT the opportunity to cover the meeting is unclear. As the speaker, it is his duty to ensure fairness and transparency. Art Harun, in his earlier incarnation as a blogger and columnist, was known for his wit and commitment to upholding justice. Can we appeal to that ideal now?
A Call to Action
We urge the speaker to reconsider his decision and allow FMT to cover the meeting. As the voice of the people, it is essential to ensure that diverse perspectives are represented. We appeal to the speaker to stand up for fairness and recognize the importance of transparency in covering Malaysian Parliament.
FAQs
* Q: Why was FMT denied access to cover the meeting?
A: The official reason cited is the need to minimize COVID-19 risk, but this does not justify the exclusion of a top news portal.
* Q: How does this affect the public’s right to know?
A: The public has a right to be informed about the discussions and decisions made in Parliament. By excluding FMT, the speaker is limiting this right.
* Q: What can we do to ensure fairness in media representation?
A: We urge the speaker to reconsider his decision and allow FMT to cover the meeting, upholding the principles of transparency and fairness.