COMMENT | This is a bittersweet milestone for Malaysiakini.

When we first opened our doors in November 1999, we did not think we would survive 25 months, let alone 25 years. But here we are, still dedicated to building a better Malaysia for all.

A shadow has been cast on the celebrations since Malaysiakini, like other media organisations around the globe, struggles to cope with the numerous disruptions that range from technological to political fatigue.

In order to continue with our mission, we are forced to downscale and this has been nothing short of painful.

Malaysiakini is the country’s only independent news organisation. It is not linked to large corporations, businesspeople, or politicians. This guarantees editorial freedom and independence.

Although there is greater media freedom now, there are still “friendly reminders” from the authorities, especially on matters related to race, religion, and royalty, or 3R.

Malaysiakini is aware that when it concerns “3R”, it has few friends. Those who defended us in the past would prefer to keep their lips sealed because the circumstances are different. So we are forced to tread with caution.

Freedom can be expensive as well.

For example, Malaysiakini was slapped with a RM500,000 fine over its readers’ comments in 2021, which we managed to settle with the generous support of Malaysians.

In the same year, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi filed a lawsuit against Malaysiakini for RM220 million over the coverage of his corruption trial, which among others, cited 399 comments from readers.

Legal wrangles force us to dig deep into our pockets. Even responding to a letter of demand can be costly.

After the last general election, our detractors, who have long accused us of being the mouthpiece of Pakatan Harapan, were expecting Malaysiakini to change its editorial direction but were surprised to notice that we maintained the same course.

This is the ethos of Malaysiakini. This is our north star - we speak truth to power regardless of who wears the crown.

We will not remain silent in the face of human rights violations, when vulnerable groups are oppressed, or when fundamental liberties are threatened.

An example of this is the assault case involving hearing-impaired e-hailing driver Ong Ing Keong. Malaysiakini reported the incident and the allegations against the police without fear of favour when others chose to remain silent or retracted their articles.

This uncompromising stand is also evident in our investigative reports on environmental issues even when these projects are linked to powerful individuals.

In the past, we opposed the abuses and corruption of the BN regime and supported the reforms which Harapan promised.

Now, we keep reminding the new administration about their promises and not to walk in the footsteps of their predecessors.

In Benicio Del Toro’s biopic of Che Guevara, there is a scene after the Cuban guerillas had overthrown Batista’s dictatorial regime in which he remarks, “The war is over. The revolution has just begun.”

Similarly, Malaysiakini understands that change is never linear. We must not be discouraged. We must continue to strive for our future generations. The fire must never be extinguished to allow darkness to envelop us.

Rest assured, Malaysiakini will always be at the forefront, bringing you the news and views that matter.

But for us to keep fighting for a better Malaysia, we need your continued support.

Thank you

RK Anand, executive editor

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