Information Freedom Bill draft fails to reflect stakeholder input, says MP

Concerns have been raised over the consultation process for Malaysia's proposed Freedom of Information Bill, with one Member of Parliament questioning whether stakeholder input has been properly integrated into the legislative framework. The MP's remarks came as Parliament held a public hearing session on the draft legislation. According to the parliamentarian, the version presented at today's hearing still does not adequately reflect the views and recommendations previously submitted by various stakeholders during the consultation phase. The criticism suggests potential gaps between the initial feedback gathered and the final draft brought before lawmakers. The Freedom of Information Bill has been a subject of considerable interest among civil society groups, media organizations, and transparency advocates who have sought greater access to government information. The discrepancy between stakeholder input and the current draft raises questions about how comprehensively public consultation was conducted and incorporated into the legislative process. Parliament's public hearing represents a critical juncture in the bill's progression, with further amendments possible before it advances to subsequent readings.