Freedom of Information Bill expected to be tabled by year-end, says Anwar

Freedom of Information Bill expected to be tabled by year-end, says Anwar

Malaysia’s upcoming Freedom of Information Bill aims to enhance transparency and public trust by granting citizens broader access to government decisions. This legislative move supports the democratic principle of accountability, allowing the public to effectively scrutinize institutional actions and fostering a more informed civil society. Complementary reforms to the Whistleblower Protection Act will remove previous exclusions and establish an independent oversight committee. These changes ensure meaningful safeguards for those exposing misconduct, reinforcing integrity within public institutions and encouraging ethical behavior through stronger legal protections for whistleblowers. These developments are crucial for open data, as they legally mandate the disclosure of non-sensitive government information. By institutionalizing transparency, Malaysia moves toward a culture where data accessibility serves as a cornerstone for democratic engagement and anti-corruption efforts, empowering citizens with the tools needed to hold power to account.

Source: thestar.com.my
Published on 2025-07-16