COMMUNICATIONS and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has described Malaysia’s position in the World Press Freedom Index 2022, released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) as a proud achievement for the country.

In a Facebook post, Fahmi said this will encourage the government to continue upholding media freedom in Malaysia.

Malaysia has jumped six places to the 113rd spot with 51.55 points, from last year’s 119th place with 60.53 points.

Malaysia ranked the highest among Asean countries, ahead of Thailand (115), Indonesia (117), Singapore (139), Cambodia (142), Brunei (144), the Philippines (147), Laos (161), Vietnam (174) and Myanmar (176).

Fahmi said the Communications and Digital Ministry is working with media practitioners to study the draft bill for the formation of the Malaysian Media Council before presenting it to the cabinet.

“God willing, there will be some good news for media practitioners ahead of National Journalists Day (Hawana),” he said.

Hawana 2023 will take place from May 27 to 29 in Ipoh, Perak, he said. – Bernama, May 1, 2023.