Topic 5 Freedom of Speech

Page 1: Introduction

Topic Overview

  • Freedom of Speech

  • SCCA2083 Communication Law

Page 2: Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Define the concepts of Freedom of Speech

  • Describe freedom of speech as outlined in the Federal Constitution of Malaysia

  • Discuss various issues and cases related to freedom of speech and social responsibility

Page 3: Definition of Freedom of Speech

Understanding Freedom of Speech

  • Related to freedom of expression

  • Defined as:

    • The freedom to express opinions and ideas without limitations or fear of punishment.

    • Source: Andrew Reeve (2003) in Oxford Concise Dictionary of Politics

  • Scope includes:

    • Publications

    • Writing, broadcasting, distributing recorded materials

    • Oral dissemination of ideas

Page 4: Article on Human Rights

Key Excerpt from Article 19

  • "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression;this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference andto ‘seek, receive and impart’ information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers."

  • Context: Freedom of expression in the Declaration of Human Rights

Page 5: Malaysian Constitution and Freedom of Speech

Article 10: Protection of Freedom

  • Art. 10(1)(a):

    • Every citizen has the right to freedom of speech and expression

  • Art. 10(1)(b):

    • The right to assemble peacefully and without arms

  • Art. 10(1)(c):

    • The right to form associations

  • Art. 11(1):

    • The right to profess and practice religion, and propagate it (subject to clause (4))

Page 6: Perspectives on Freedom of the Press

Quote from Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad

  • Importance of the freedom of the press:

    • Essential for society; suppressing truth is detrimental

  • Issues in journalism:

    • Freedom of one group should not restrict the freedoms of others

    • Often, journalistic practices may deny subjects the opportunity to present their side

    • Advocates for giving everyone a hearing

  • Source: Speech at the International Convention on Freedom of Speech and Social Responsibility, 11 November 1997

Page 7: Visual Representation

Concept

  • "A picture is worth a thousand words"

  • Implication: Images can convey complex ideas and emotions effectively

Page 8: Reflective Task

Your Task

  • Reflect on:

    • Your perspective on the practice of freedom of speech in your country

    • Reasons for your viewpoint