This was especially so for cases that would draw a lot of attention, he said.

He was commenting on reports that journalists from many media organisations were barred from entering the Shah Alam High Court to cover the murder trial of Kim Jong Nam that began yesterday.

Only a handful of reporters from Bernama, some local print dailies and international news agencies were allowed in.

Journalists from online portals were barred from entering the court despite some turning up as early as 5.30am to get the press passes.

They were told that the seats allocated for reporters were limited.

Kadir said the excuse given by the court was unacceptable.

“They should know that this case is going to attract the attention of all media organisations.

“So, they should have made arrangements to deal with the allocation of seats in the courtroom beforehand.”

He said a “pool reporting” method could also have been practised if indeed there was a limited space for reporters.

“For instance, if there are 50 reporters but only five are allowed to go in, the reporters need to compromise in choosing these five to go in and do the coverage for all of them.”

Meanwhile, lawyer Shahredzan Johan said it was important to find out the reason for not allowing online media to cover the hearing.

He said a “first come first served” system could have been practised if the court could not take in all reporters.