JOURNALIST JAILED
 

The Appeals Court rejection of Far Eastern Economic Review journalist
Murray Hiebert's appeal against his three months' jail sentence for
contempt of court raises fundamental questions about freedom of
expression in the country.

Hiebert who hegan serving a six week jail term yesterday is the first
journalist in the country's history to be imprisoned for contempt of
court.  Other journalists have been convicted under the Official Secrets
Act (OSA) and the Sedition Act.

When the laws of the land are used to thwart freedom of thought and
expression, society will not mature and develop.  The truth will remain
suppressed.  And wrongdoings and injustices will thrive.

By choosing to go to jail immediately, Hiebert has displayed courage and
integrity.  Parti Keadilan Nasional  hopes that his example will inspire
other journalists in the country to stand up for their rights, whatever
the costs and consequences.
 
 
 

DR. CHANDRA MUZAFFAR
Deputy President
Parti KeADILan Nasional
 

12 September 1999
 

Pink Panther