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RSF downgrade fine, priority is combating racism, bigotry: Anwar on press freedom index drop | Scoop
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim asserts that while freedom of speech, including criticism and alternative ideas, is welcome, it should not promote racism. – Muharram Kasim/Scoop pic, May 27, 2024
News

RSF downgrade fine, priority is combating racism, bigotry: Anwar on press freedom index drop

PM remains unfazed by Malaysia's lower ranking, emphasising government's focus, prioritising rakyat’s well-being over international scores

Main Author Image
Adam Ayzzat
Updated
6:55 PM MYT

 

KUALA LUMPUR –  Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim remains unfazed by Malaysia’s lower position in the World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), emphasising that his priority is the well-being of Malaysians.

During the National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) 2024 celebration in Kuching, Sarawak, Anwar said that the ranking is insignificant as his government is focused on combating racism and bigotry in the country.

“I do not mind (the lower score), it does not matter if (we) are downgraded because we are tough against the racist and religious bigots,” he said in his speech today.

“To me, saving the country and protecting the rights of the majority and minority (communities) are more important than getting a high mark (and) international recognition.”

Anwar further explained that while freedom of speech, including criticism and alternative ideas, is welcome, it should not foster racism.

“Yes, we want freedom, but should we condone excesses? Do we accept that anything can be said without regard to moral and ethical principles or the need to strengthen a united country?

“If you allow racism or fascism to flourish or allow religious bigotry to have a freehold in the country, you must anticipate the possibility of friction, racial strife, and religious disharmony,” he said.

On May 3, RSF announced that Malaysia ranked 107th in the World Press Freedom Index 2024, a major drop from its 73rd spot a year before. 

Malaysia’s global score of 52.07 this year also placed its press freedom in the “difficult” category. 

On May 15, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil revealed that RSF’s ranking was decided following feedback from survey respondents and not first-hand observations by the publisher.

He also argued that the index ranking should not be regarded as the “golden” standard as it fails to consider Eastern values. 

He also said the ranking was still considered “good” compared to the previous government. – May 27, 2024

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