8 MPs initiate caucus on freedom of expression and info - The Sun

PETALING JAYA (April 21, 2008): By Kimberly Lau and Husna Yusop

Eight Pakatan Rakyat (PR) MPs are setting up a Caucus on Freedom of Expression and Information for the opening of the 12th Parliament session scheduled to be held from April 28 to May 27.

The eight are Charles Santiago (Klang), Dzeulkefly Ahmad (Kuala Selangor). The other MPs are Tony Pua (Petaling Jaya Utara), Teo Nie Ching (Serdang), Chua Tian Chang (Batu), Bukit Liew Chin Tong (Bukit Bendera), Lim Lip Eng (Segambut) and Ooi Chuan Ann (Jelutong).

Santiago said: "We are in the process of getting more people to support this caucus when Parliament convenes. This will be an inter-party caucus which will involve PAS, DAP and PKR. We will also try to get Barisan Nasional (BN) members to join.

"The issues we intend to discuss in this caucus include the reform of media law, the freedom of information and equal access to the media for all."

Teo said DAP has also been working with NGOs to come up with a draft bill for the Freedom of Information Act.

"We hope the Official Secrets Act 1972 is repealed with the bill. The chances for this to be passed in Parliament is uncertain, but it is time for everyone to do more to protect the freedom of information as well as the press. The press obviously plays an important role and has a lot of influence."

On talk of the five PR states producing their own paper, Tian Chua said: "It is still being discussed and the format is still in the exploratory stage. It will merely provide a different voice."

"Every publication propagates certain ideas. In the atmosphere of a free media , and I am not talking about an entirely neutral media , what we need are different views."

On the non-renewal of Makkal Osai's printing and publications licencence, Santiago said the Home Ministry should openly discuss its concerns regarding the Tamil daily.

In a press conference today, Charles said the action against Makkal Osai is seen by the Indian community as punishment for voting for the opposition in the general election.

"Makkal Osai's permit should be renewed. If the ministry has any concerns, they should make them openly clear for further discussion and deliberation. Arbitrarily cancelling the permit is not acceptable," he said, adding that the daily's reporting has been fair and their efforts should not be undermined.