<p><strong>Reject Internet censorship; repeal the PPPA and Sedition Act</strong></p> <p>We are civil society groups alarmed by recent remarks from top ministerial personnel that revealed government intention to censor online free expression, from hints of &ldquo;cyber sedition regulations&rdquo; and the expansion of the Printing Presses and Publications Act (PPPA) to encompass the online media.</p>

<p>The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) is concerned over the alleged assault of &quot;Bernama&quot; photographer Hairul Nizam Baharin while he was carrying out his duties on 9 January 2011. Reports indicate that Hairul Nizam was questioned by auxiliary police after he had taken photos near the Integrated Transportation Terminal in Bandar Tasik Selatan, Kuala Lumpur, at 11.30 a.m. on that day. He was allegedly punched, assaulted, handcuffed and brought to the police station after refusing their request to stop his motorcycle and provide his identification card.</p>