The Macau Journalists Association (AJM) has voiced serious concerns about the escalating restrictions on press freedom in the city, calling on the government to withdraw unnecessary reporting limitations.
This plea comes as the region prepares to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its handover from Portugal to China.
In a statement released last week, the AJM highlighted several recent incidents that illustrate a troubling trend in the erosion of press freedom.
“We are witnessing a systematic preclusion of various media outlets from covering government-hosted events,” said the AJM.
“This is achieved through an attendance registration system that effectively screens out journalists and deprives them of their right to report.”
The association said this practice contradicts the rights enshrined in Macau’s press law, which guarantees journalists’ freedom to access information sources.
Events such as the opening ceremony of the Judicial Year 2024/2025 and press conferences by the Executive Council have seen selective media participation, limiting coverage to only a few pre-approved outlets.
“This is not just about access; it’s about transparency and fairness in reporting,” said the MJA.
The government’s justification for these restrictions has been criticized as unconvincing by the AJM.
Officials have cited “limited resources and seats” at events as reasons for excluding certain journalists.
“The Macau Cultural Centre has over 1,000 seats, yet we see only a dozen journalists allowed at briefings,” the association noted.
Moreover, the assosciation recalled that there have been reports of local media being pressured to retract articles under political duress.
One case noted by the AJM involved an opinion piece published during the recent chief executive election campaign, which was reportedly withdrawn following external pressure.
“This kind of interference is not only unacceptable but also undermines the integrity of journalism in Macau,” said the association.
As Macau approaches its 25th anniversary of its handover, the AJM is urging the incoming Chief Executive, Sam Hou Fai, to foster better relations with the press and uphold constitutional freedoms.
“We call on the Chief Executive-elect to engage openly with journalists and respect our legally protected rights,” the statement read.
“We believe that this would be an important opportunity for Macau to prove to the world its success in implementing ‘One country, two systems.’”
The AJM’s concerns are echoed by international organizations that monitor press freedom.
Reporters Without Borders has previously noted, “The environment for journalists is increasingly hostile.”
Considering these developments, the AJM has called for immediate action from the government.
It has demanded clarity on policies about media access and has urged officials to abandon practices that hinder journalistic work.
“Attendance registration should facilitate coverage, not obstruct it”.
The association also highlighted a trend where press releases replace traditional press conferences, limiting opportunities for reporters to ask questions directly.
“This shift reduces journalists to mere conduits for government messages rather than active participants in public discourse,” remarked the association.
“The time has come for our government to reflect on its relationship with the media,” said the AJM. “We urge them to recognize that a free press is essential for a healthy democracy.” Staff Reporter
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