Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding media freedom in Malaysia, emphasizing that this freedom should not be exploited to disrupt national unity and harmony by inciting 3R issues: Race, Religion, and Royalty.
Anwar highlighted the government's long-standing support for media rights and freedoms, which have been upheld since before the country's independence. He stressed that the current administration remains dedicated to allowing journalists and media outlets to express opinions, offer feedback, and provide criticism without facing censorship or punitive actions.
"Our policy, shared by my Cabinet colleagues, is to ensure that journalists and media professionals have the liberty to voice their thoughts and critiques. This assurance of media freedom persists, although it sometimes causes concern due to our stringent measures against issues threatening national security, extreme patriotism, and religious fanaticism," Anwar stated in his keynote address at the MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2023 ceremony.
The MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2023 is an annual event recognizing exemplary journalistic achievements throughout the year.
Anwar expressed his belief that Malaysia has the potential to become a great nation if journalists focus on reporting that promotes peace and highlights national progress. He emphasized that successful journalism is driven by passion, confidence, and dedication to the profession.
"Malaysia can achieve greatness and strength if we concentrate on goals that foster peace, economic development, cultural growth, religious understanding, and digital advancement. However, we must avoid issues that cause division, ignorance, or arrogance, which ultimately diminish our humanity," he remarked.
Additionally, Anwar urged Malaysians to improve their proficiency in English while continuing to uphold Bahasa Malaysia as the national language. He stressed that while Bahasa Malaysia remains enshrined as the official language in the Federal Constitution, the importance of mastering English should not be overlooked.
"I have directed the Education Minister, Fadhlina Sidek, and the Ministry of Higher Education to maintain the policy on Bahasa Malaysia while simultaneously enhancing efforts to improve English language proficiency," Anwar added.
In conclusion, Anwar's address reinforced the balance between maintaining media freedom and protecting national unity. His call for journalists to report responsibly and for citizens to embrace bilingual proficiency underscores the government's vision for a harmonious and progressive Malaysia.
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