Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has stood by his actions in reprimanding a journalist during the launch of the “I Lite U” project, an initiative linked to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, stating that the interaction between media and public officials must be based on mutual respect.
Speaking after widespread criticism, Nga clarified that his response was not an attack on press freedom but a necessary correction to ensure professionalism in engagements between reporters and government representatives. He insisted that journalists, like politicians, also carry responsibilities when posing questions, and that two-way communication should allow both sides to express themselves without crossing lines of decorum.
According to Oriental Daily News, the Teluk Intan MP argued that his remarks had been fair, adding that excessive reactions often arise when people cannot accept even minor corrections. He explained that both his press conference and the Kuala Lumpur mayor’s address were conducted in Malay, despite several international media outlets being present.
He said the issue began when a journalist asked why the “I Lite U” campaign slogan was in English rather than in Malay. Nga interpreted the question as a deliberate attempt to provoke controversy and to embarrass Malaysia before foreign guests. He maintained that promoting the campaign in English was part of a broader tourism strategy aimed at appealing to international audiences.
The minister’s comments, however, drew backlash from several media organizations, including the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Peninsular Malaysia and the Merdeka Media Movement (Geramm). Both groups criticized Nga’s tone and described his behavior as an example of political overreach that could threaten media independence.
In their joint statement, the organizations stressed that journalists must be allowed to question public officials freely without fear of intimidation or retaliation. They reminded government leaders that press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy and that ministers should welcome scrutiny as part of transparent governance.
Nga, meanwhile, dismissed the accusation that he was attempting to silence the press, reiterating that constructive criticism and open dialogue are essential for national progress. He urged both the government and the media to engage respectfully, especially on matters that shape Malaysia’s international image.
The “I Lite U” project, a major component of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, aims to enhance urban lighting and beautification efforts across key city areas, promoting Malaysia as a vibrant and modern tourist destination.
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