00:00The Centre for Independent Journalism said ministers must field questions by the media professionally,
00:07noting that as public figures, those in office are held to higher standards and accountability.
00:13CIJ Executive Director Wath Shlaji Naidoo said the media serves as a conduit between those in power and the public,
00:20adding that questions to ministers are an opportunity to engage citizens and provide access to vital information.
00:26Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Korming drew brickbats for reprimanding an Utusan Malaysia reporter at the pre-launch of the I Light You project
00:37after he was purportedly asked why the name of the programme was in English instead of Malay.
00:42Naidoo said Nga's actions were unethical, unprofessional and completely discredit our government institution,
00:49adding that ministers who create a hostile environment risk discouraging the media from asking questions for fear of repercussions.
00:57Separately, UCSI University's Tajuddin Razli called for Nga to apologise,
01:02recalling how he was once questioned unprofessionally by a prominent radio station,
01:07during which he drew on his experience to clarify the question and respond.
01:11However, Tajuddin noted that the way a question is asked can sometimes prompt such reactions,
01:16adding that courtesy goes a long way with politicians.
Be the first to comment