KUALA LUMPUR – Press photographers have the right to snap photographs of suspects being charged for a crime, unless the latter are in the dock for crimes related to children.
Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) said on Facebook that the same would apply to individuals being charged with cases where there is a need to protect their identities.
The journalism rights group was commenting on controversial policewoman Sheila Sharon Steven Kumar reprimanding press photographers who were snapping her pictures at the Kuala Lumpur courts complex yesterday.
The suspended policewoman, better known as “Inspector Sheila”, issued a stern warning: “Did you ask for my permission to take my pictures? It is my right. You cannot take pictures without my permission. Taking pictures without my permission, watch out,” she was quoted as saying by NST.
She also added, “Nice meeting you guys. It is a good day, Malaysia.”
At the court, Sheila claimed trial to a charge of obstructing a police officer from performing his duties last week.
According to the charge sheet, she intentionally obstructed police officer Malvinderjit Singh Teerath Singh, 37, from carrying out his duties during a crime prevention patrol, between 8.15pm and 8.30pm at a restaurant on Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah in Dang Wangi here, on November 4.
The 37-year-old could be jailed for up to two years, or fined up to RM10,000, or both, if convicted under the charge framed under Section 186 of the Penal Code. – November 13, 2025