1. The Printing Presses Act of 1948 (amendments in 1971 and 1974)

The Act stipulates that a potential publish-ermust secure a licence to use a printing press, as well as a permit (called a KDN number) authorising him to print or publish a newspaper. Both the licence and the permit expire each 31 December, and must be renewed through the Ministry of Home Affairs, which can withdraw either without explanantion at any time. When a licence or Permit is withdrawn, the publisher has the right of appeal to the King. The Minister, when issuing a permit, may make conditions upon the publisher, such as requiring him to print in the languages specified in the permit or to post bond against penalties imposed because of potential violation of this or other Acts. Since 1970, all permit holders must guarantee that their publications will not distort facts relating to public order incidents within Malaysia, will not inflame or stir up communal hostility, or use material likely to prejudice public order or national security. Any change in ownership of the press must be declared to the Registrar within 21 days. The Ministry also has the power to direct publishers to insert in their papers a denial or correction written on the Ministers terms, if he feels a statement is false.