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[Abstract: This article discusses the contemporary issue of media freedom in Malaysia. First, it discusses the concept of freedom of the press and determines which theories, Libertarian, Social Responsibility, or Authoritarian, are suitable in the context of analysing the real situation of media freedom in Malaysia. Second, by using the list of media freedom criteria from the Department of Journalistic Studies, Missouri University, US, analysis has been done to measure the situation of media freedom in Malaysia. Third, the article tries to show the latest movements and lobbies internally and externally in supporting the media freedom in Malaysia. To conclude the current situation, the Malaysian government has restricted media freedom for the purpose of national security and political stability. However, this article clearly shows that media in Malaysia has been controlled by the government and media companies associated with government leaders for political survivability of ruling government party and leaders to hold the power.]
Media is critical in today's society because the mass media performs a number of essential functions in our lives. First, they serve an information or surveillance function. second, they serve an agenda-setting and interpretation function. Third, they help us create and maintain connections with various groups in society. Fourth, they help us socialise and educate us. Fifth, they persuade us to buy certain items or accept certain ideas. And sixth, they entertain us. The number of hours we spend consuming the media is mind-boggling. This amount is ever increasing. For better or worse, we are inextricably linked to the media. We are now living a media culture and its influence is becoming very pervasive (Mohd Hamdan Adnan 2003).
Considering the media situation in Malaysia, a research done by Bridget Welsh's (1996)1 could be an indicator to know the real situation of freedom of the press in Malaysia. The findings of the research clearly show that the overall percentage for freedom of speech/press is 29% in Capital (urban) and 39% in Non-Capital (rural). Only 22% of respondents in Capital and 35% in Non-Capital feel that the right to free speech/press should be a priority. The support of freedom of expression by certain Malaysians in urban areas compared to rural areas was due to the increase of awareness of human rights as...