Media control in Malaysia is almost as old as the existence of mass media in the country. Malaysia falls under the category of democracy variously called "quasi-democracy", "authoritarian-democracy", or "Asian democracy". The government is firmly controlled by the ruling coalition, Barisan National (National Front), for half a century. The ruling party has over the years created and reinforced numerous mechanisms to ensure an obedient media that will not jeopardize the status quo. This paper is an examination of the various implementations the Government has utilized to retain that control. Among the most oppressing legislations of the media includes The Sedition Act, The Printing Presses and Publication Act, The Multimedia and Communication Act, and The Internal Security Act. An understanding of the legislations is important for any investigation of the media's sociopolitical structure.

The Malaysian experience of preventing violence by balanced reporting instead of inciting articles and advocating Liberal Islam as a part of developmental journalism should be extended across border now. The Malaysian media has a responsibility to continue advocating Liberal Islam in the domestic scenario and the world arena alike. Only then will it be successful in its quest for ensuring that the definitions of peace, terrorism and humanity are universal in its true sense.   Publication/Conference: 4th International Malaysian Studies Conference; 3-5 August 2004, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi.  Author: Jaganathan Marimuthu.

The article focuses on the films of Malaysian Director Yasmin Ahmad and highlights her cosmopolitan sensibility in making Islamic film. Among her films that became the focus of a talk show debate on national television station were "Mukhsin," "Sepet and Gubra: Cultural Corruptors?," and "Muallaf." Most of her films have an Islamic representation, an Islam that is idealistic for being liberal, moderate and accommodating others.

The paper examines the question of the economic and religious influence on S&T development in Malaysia. Publication: 4th International Malaysian Studies Conference; 3-5 August 2004, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi. Author: Mohd Hazim Shah.