DPM says Aussie news crew’s actions unacceptable

(Malay Mail Online) – An Australian news crew’s attempt to “barge into” Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday was not acceptable conduct for journalists covering prominent figures, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.

Commenting on the incident yesterday that led to the arrest of a reporter and cameraman from Australia’s ABC News, Ahmad Zahid also denied that the arrest was meant to prevent the duo from interviewing Najib.

“Perhaps, it is acceptable for their media organisation for them to barge into any VVIP like that, but it is certainly not a code of ethics practised by journalists in this country,” he told reporters after chairing the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation meeting here.

“Their arrest must be looked at (from the perspective of) giving priority to the security of the prime minister by the relevant security authority, and we should not take this security lightly,” he added.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also home minister, said that while Malaysia welcomes the presence of foreign media, journalists must abide by the code of conduct and laws that are applicable in the country.

He pointed out that Malaysian journalists operating in other countries would similarly be expected to observe local laws and protocol.

ABC reporter Linton Besser, 39, and camera operator Louis Eroglu, 51, were arrested by police last night for allegedly crossing a security cordon in their bid to interview Najib during his official visit to Kuching.

Police are investigating the incident under Section 186 of the Penal Code that pertains to the obstruction of a public servant in the discharge of his duties.

Besser and Eroglu were released this morning after local columnist Edgar Ong acted as their bailor.

Both Australian news men were also ordered to surrender their passports.