Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, speaking on behalf of the government and the Home Ministry, said: “I do not hinder any local or foreign journalist from covering any event or interviewing any leader.
“The journalism profession has its ethics… but when they cross the line we have to ensure our VVIPs are protected using security measures.”
His remarks were made at a media conference after a meeting of the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation’s executive committee here. Also present were the Inspector-General of Police, Khalid Abu Bakar, and MCPF vice-chairman Lee Lam Thye.
He had been asked to comment on the detention of an Australian television reporter and cameraman arrested for breaking a security cordon while trying to interview Prime Minister Najib Razak last night.
Ahmad Zahid said security personnel give top priority to protect VVIPs and it should not be seen as impeding the freedom of the media.
“The act (keeping security) was to ensure journalism ethics are adhered to…the ethics in Malaysia should be observed and obeyed and the question of security should be given top priority by the authorities and journalists should respect the decision to keep security intact,” he said.
“I think if Malaysian journalists were abroad, they should also adhere to journalism ethics as well as the security factors in the country concerned,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said the detention of the two Australians could not be considered as obstructing foreign journalists.
“I think they have done the best for their media. But at the same time, they should respect the aspects of security enforced by the authorities in this country,” he said.
When enquired about the action against the two foreigners, Ahmad Zahid said he had left it to police to take further action.
“We hope what is important is respect for the law and observing the rules,” he said.
-BERNAMA
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