Freedom of speech, and particularly freedom of the press, must include the right to express unpopular or challenging views as well as those which follow mainstream narratives. Southeast Asia has never been lauded as a global leader in press freedom, and it has been another dark year for the region in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Press Freedom Index 2019, with one notable glimmer of light in the form of Malaysia’s rise in the rankings. All 10 Asean states are at the lower end of the scale, categorised as “bad” or “very bad” in terms of press freedom. But in the wake of World Press Freedom Day, it is important to acknowledge our progress without losing sight of the work still to be done. Change won’t happen overnight, but with all of Asean still struggling to embrace freedom of the press, Malaysia must continue on this path and help to lead the way.

Source: The Star May 04, 2019 23:26 UTC