i. ii. iii. iv. To identify the relevance and importance of a freedom of information legislation in Malaysia; To identify the challenges in enacting a freedom of information legislation in Malaysia; To assess laws that restrict the right to freedom of information; and To outline a strategic framework towards enacting a freedom of information legislation. Throughout the RTD, several issues were raised which include the following: i. ii. iii. iv. v. Access to information could lead in creating a government that is more transparent and accountable; In considering of having the Right to Information Law, several pertinent points and safeguards should be considered. It was proposed for the government to amend the Federal Constitution and to review the related laws and policies; If the government maintained its secretive administrative system, there would be an inherent danger that the vast power conferred to the executive might lead to private gain or for corrupt motive. These days, societies across the world have moved from a secretive administrative system to an open and transparent system; Openness and transparency in government would act as a powerful check on the abuse or misuse of power done by the government. However, right to information must also be balanced with several considerations such as security, public order, decency and privacy; and Right to information was not only for the citizens as it would also bring positive points to the government. Having the right to information law S U H A K A M A N N U A L R EPOR T 2017 27 1 The objectives of the RTD were as follows: C H A P T E R agencies and the media was held on 4 August 2017 to obtain input, views and recommendations from all participants with regard to the matter. The Commission invited five speakers to provide information and to share their experiences and views on issues relating to access to information. They were Mr. Michael P.Canares, an international expert, Ms. Cynthia Gabriel from C4, Mr. Mansoor Saat from Malaysia Bar Council, Dr. Nik Salida Suhaila Nik Saleh from SUHAKAM, and Ms. Sophia Hashim from Malaysia Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU).