Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) said this after communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil dismissed concerns over the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) potentially misusing its power to restrict media freedom and freedom of speech.

The PAS MP told the Dewan Rakyat today a post linking PKR with Liberal International had been removed at MCMC’s request.

He also noted that eight veteran journalists had urged MCMC to stop playing “big brother” by blocking news portals and questioning media staff over content that was published.

“I understand the minister has good intentions, but when it comes to MCMC, I’m concerned that the good intentions may not be realised,” Fadhli said.

In response, Fahmi said he welcomed Harakah’s appeal and would discuss the matter with the information department.

“However, what I want to emphasise here are journalistic ethics. We are ready, just as the prime minister has said he is ready, to forgive. It’s not a problem,” he said.

“And these journalistic ethics, they are not just applicable to Harakah alone, but to everyone.”

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim threatened to take action against those who associate him with Israel, referring to a statement made by Ahmad Yahaya (PN-Pokok Sena) in a Harakah report.

In the report, Ahmad, the PAS ulama council chief, expressed concerns that the Anwar-led government is now seen as being sympathetic to the Palestinian struggle only after claiming to be threatened by certain parties and pressured by coalition party allies.

As for the eight veteran journalists, Fahmi said action might have been taken against them if they had made those statements during their time of service.

“Until today, they are free and can continue to voice their opinions,” he said.