Malaysian Media Council: Arrest of former journalist Rex Tan unnecessary and punitive

KUCHING (Jan 17): The arrest and detention of former journalist Rex Tan, whose question at a recent lecture on the Gaza conflict sparked public uproar, appear unnecessary and punitive, said the Malaysian Media Council (MMC).

“Rex Tan has publicly apologised and resigned from Free Malaysia Today (FMT) to take responsibility for his actions.

“He has also expressed his willingness to fully cooperate with the ongoing police investigation. In this context, his arrest and detention appear unnecessary and punitive,” the council said in a statement.

More fundamentally, MMC said this case raises serious questions about the risks faced by media practitioners: can a journalist be deemed to have committed sedition or caused public mischief simply by asking a question at a public forum?

Incidents like this highlight the increasing occupational and legal risks that journalists face in Malaysia, including the threat of investigation, detention, and other punitive measures, even when performing routine journalistic duties, pointed out MMC.

“Such risks can cause severe psychological and professional pressure, undermining the ability of journalists to work freely and safely.

“Heavy-handed and punitive action against a journalist has a chilling effect on the media and public discourse, and reflects poorly on a government that has repeatedly committed itself to upholding freedom of expression and press freedom,” it said.

MMC called for Tan’s immediate release.

It also urged the police and the government to exercise restraint, adopt a proportionate and just approach in addressing such matters, and refrain from punitive actions that undermine journalistic work, media freedom and the broader safety and professional security of journalists.