The Press Emblem Campaign (PEC), a global media safety and rights organization, has expressed relief following the release of two journalists—Kashmiri reporter Majid Hyderi and Malaysian journalist B Nantha Kumar—who were both detained under controversial circumstances.
Hyderi, an independent journalist and political analyst, was freed after over 525 days of detention under the Public Safety Act, a law allowing authorities to hold individuals without trial for up to two years. He was arrested in September 2023 on charges of extortion and defamation. The Jammu & Kashmir High Court ruled his detention was unjust, emphasizing that criticism of the government should not lead to arrest. Hyderi’s release is seen as a victory for press freedom, with various media bodies, including the Kashmir Press Club, applauding the decision.
Meanwhile, PEC also welcomed the release of Malaysian journalist B Nantha Kumar, who was arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over alleged bribery charges. Nantha, known for his investigative reports on corruption in Malaysia’s immigration department, was detained for four days before being granted bail. PEC President Blaise Lempen stressed the need for a fair and impartial investigation into the arrest, without political interference.
The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) also voiced concern over Kumar’s detention, underscoring the crucial role of journalists in exposing corruption and holding those in power accountable. The APHR urged that any use of anti-corruption laws to silence the press must be condemned.
Both cases highlight ongoing challenges to press freedom in South and Southeast Asia, with PEC calling for continued vigilance in safeguarding the rights of journalists.
