Govt to begin declassifying historical documents under Official Secrets Act, says Fahmi

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 30 — The government plans to declassify historical documents, including those classified as official secrets under the Official Secrets Act, as soon as possible, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil stated. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim brought up the issue during the recent 2026 National Historians Council meeting.

The Cabinet agreed with historians on the importance of establishing a policy for declassifying such documents under the current Official Secrets Act. Fahmi noted that the prime minister emphasized the need for a swift yet careful implementation of this policy. The matter would first be reviewed, including by the Attorney General’s Chambers, to evaluate implications and determine how historical documents could be made accessible.

Consultations with the Royal Malaysia Police and the Home Ministry are also planned. However, documents that are not overly sensitive and were previously classified under the Official Secrets Act might be easier to declassify. Fahmi also revealed that the Cabinet agreed to amend guidelines on managing abandoned vehicles, following feedback and complaints about the existing process, which could take too long.

The Housing and Local Government Ministry and the Transport Ministry will oversee the ongoing adjustments. Additionally, Fahmi mentioned that Anwar had directed the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, along with the Communications Ministry (via the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission), to combat fraud and scams on e-commerce platforms.

An e-commerce enforcement meeting is scheduled in the coming weeks to improve coordination among agencies in addressing consumer issues on these platforms.