There are few independent media organisations in Malaysia, so Malaysia Today, an outspoken online reporting outfit with a significant readership, often attracts official criticism. When its editor, Raja Petra, was charged with breaching the country’s Internal Security Act and held in “administrative detention” pending trial, the MLDI went to his help. It arranged through the International Bar Association for his trial to be observed and meanwhile challenged the legality of his detention. Mr Petra was released in November 2008, whereupon the prosecution lodged an appeal, which is pending. The MLDI continues to support him.
Recent News
Meet the Team: Marta Cabrera
We’re thrilled to welcome Marta Cabrera, an accomplished human rights lawyer, to our team as a legal consultant. With years of experience at both the Inter-American and European Courts of Human Rights, Marta brings invaluable insight to our work. In this Meet the Team interview, she shares her journey, the cases that shaped her, and […]
Our Journalist Impact Survey 2024
Explore Report We’re pleased to publish key insights from our 8th Journalist Impact Survey. The report shares findings and observations on the effectiveness and long-term impact of our legal and financial help, as well as the threats and trends affecting the journalists we support around the world. “The support I received from Media Defence has […]
Standing Up to Abusive Lawsuits: Legal Support Seminar with Ossigeno per L’Informazione
9 April 2025 | 15:00–18:00 CET | In-person and online | Italian (In person & Online) English (Online) Media Defence’s CEO, Carlos Gaio, will join Italian press freedom partner Ossigeno per L’Informazione in addressing SLAPPs and the urgent need for high quality legal support. On 9 April 2025, we will participate in the seminar “Intimidatory […]