In a statement today, IoJ said journalists should not be subjected to threats of harm for doing their jobs.
This was in reference to Kow’s photograph being circulated on social media, following her news report on a speech by incumbent Nangka assemblyman, Dr Annuar Rapaee of Barisan Nasional on April 21, which he claimed had been taken out of context.
The said news report also received a backlash from various parties, prompting Malaysiakini to recall Kow from Sarawak.
IoJ said newsmakers should contact the relevant media organisation and request a correction if they felt their words had been taken out of context.
“They can also issue a statement and make clarifications,” said the statement, which also slammed the police probe now initiated against Kow.
“Initiating a criminal investigation against a journalist for their work is tantamount to harassment by the authorities, regardless of allegations of inaccuracies in a news report.
“Again, the aggrieved party has ample legal recourse to seek redress and it is not for the police, or for any other authority, to act on the aggrieved party’s behalf in what is ultimately a civil matter.”
IoJ urged the police to probe threats made against Kow and to check if anyone had invaded her privacy, as her photograph had been circulated on social media without her consent.
“Such incidents present a real risk for journalists, who already face numerous legal, and in some cases physical, hazards in their daily work. Journalists must be allowed to do their jobs without fear of reprisal from the State or threats of violence from individuals.”