Aliran welcomes Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim’s bold judgment in quashing the Home Minister’s rejection of Malaysiakini’s application for a publishing permit.
Such a significant decision is very much in line with the principle of freedom of expression that is enshrined in our Federal Constitution, especially in a country where the ruling party purportedly aspires to build a Malaysia that is the “best democracy in the world”.
Additionally, the court decision might lead to a healthy situation where Malaysians are offered a whole spectrum of viewpoints via the media, both mainstream and alternative, that are free and socially responsible.
In this regard, we hope the Home Minister will not appeal against this monumental judgment the political benefits of which can be enjoyed by Malaysians from all walks of life. To appeal the decision would be quite simply anti-democratic.
We look forward to Malaysiakini hitting the streets — and giving a big section of the jaded and often pliant mainstream press a run for their money.
Aliran executive committee
2 October 2012