KUALA LUMPUR, November 1 — Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil reaffirmed that journalists are free to ask questions in carrying out their duties, following the recent controversy involving Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and an Utusan Malaysia reporter.
He said the matter was discussed at today’s Cabinet meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, where the government reiterated its commitment to media freedom and respectful engagement between ministers and the press.
Fahmi said Nga Kor Ming has agreed to meet with Utusan Malaysia’s management to clear the air and provide a personal explanation regarding the incident. “The Prime Minister has always been open to all questions, and the government maintains that journalists have every right to ask,” he said.
Adding that any ministerial response must be courteous and guided by mutual respect. Fahmi described Nga’s decision to meet the media group as a positive step and said it would be up to the minister to decide whether to issue an apology.
