Media petition over Parliament lobby access

KUALA LUMPUR: Journalists covering the Dewan Rakyat have submitted a petition to speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia urging for a review on his ruling not to allow the media into Parliament lobby.
The petition which was signed by 69 reporters, cameraman and photographers from various mainstream and online news portals and was received by Pandikar's special officer Lee Chun Boon.
"With all due respect to your ruling and authority, we note that we are unable to understand the claim that we pose a security threat and cause discomfort among members of Parliament.
"We wish to note that the ruling effectively curtails movement in Parliament and stops many of us from carrying out our jobs effectively.
"We apologise for any shortcomings due to the conduct of any of our colleagues, and rest assured we would be thankful if we are granted access to the lobby, so long as we are able to gain access to lawmakers and hold them accountable," read the petition.
Members of the media hope to receive a reply from Pandikar by Tuesday evening.
Meanwhile, Opposition leader Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (PKR- Permatang Pauh) said she wants Pandikar Amin to reconsider the ruling made under the Dewan Rakyat Standing Order 94 as the new media center is located a floor below the Dewan, which makes it difficult for both media personnel and lawmakers to meet.
Her sentiment was shared by Umno Information Chief Tan Sri Annuar Musa (BN- Ketereh).
Annuar said although the media centre is spacious and comfortable, it is hard for both lawmakers and journalists to have direct contact.
"Probably we can find a way to allocate one corner in front of the lobby. Because sometimes, lawmakers would not come down here to give a press conference, sometimes you (journalists) need to chase certain MPs, and if you are here, how can you do that," Annuar said.