Overly strict media rules deter discussion of sensitive topics, says ex-minister

overly strict media rules deter discussion of sensitive topics, says ex-minister

The Anti-Fake News Act 2018 was introduced during Salleh Said Keruak’s tenure as communications and multimedia minister, just before the 14th general election. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: A former communications and multimedia minister has cautioned that an overly stringent media ethics code may hinder reporters from doing their work effectively, despite its aim of combating the rise of fake news.

Salleh Said Keruak said while the journalists’ code of ethics recently launched by communications minister Fahmi Fadzil could safeguard media independence, it could also discourage discussions of sensitive topics by media practitioners.

“Safeguarding media independence is essential to upholding freedom of expression, fostering transparency, and strengthening democracy.

“There is a possibility that overly stringent media ethics could impede investigative reporting and discourage discussions of sensitive topics identified by authorities,” Salleh told FMT.

The Usukan assemblyman’s tenure as minister from 2015 to 2018, under prime minister Najib Razak’s administration, saw the introduction of the Anti-Fake News Act 2018, just before the 14th general election. The act was repealed in 2019 during the Pakatan Harapan administration.

overly strict media rules deter discussion of sensitive topics, says ex-minister

A Kadir Jasin.

The latest code launched by Fahmi on Tuesday replaces the previous iteration introduced 35 years ago, and comprises eight key ethics including responsibility, transparency, and fairness in disseminating information.

It has been questioned by rights groups, with Lawyers for Liberty claiming that it will “further strengthen (the government’s) control over the media” and calling it “a backdoor way” of reviving the “draconian” Anti-Fake News Act.

Meanwhile, media rights group Gerakan Media Merdeka said any code of ethics for journalists in Malaysia should be regulated by the media industry, not the government.

Veteran newsman A Kadir Jasin also criticised the timing of the new code’s introduction, saying such regulations should come under the purview of the Malaysian Media Council since the bill for its formation would be tabled in Parliament in June.

“However, the government suddenly and unilaterally launched its own code, even though the Malaysian Media Council Bill hasn’t been presented yet,” Kadir told FMT.

“Why rush to unilaterally establish these ethics? Can’t it wait until the Malaysian Media Act is established? Or is someone seeking to stamp his mark?”

On Feb 21, Fahmi announced that the Malaysian Media Council Bill would be tabled in Parliament in June, following Cabinet approval earlier that day.

News Related

OTHER NEWS

Big market marred by poor upkeep

THOSE looking for fresh produce may find themselves spoilt for choice at the biggest wet market in Klang, but visitors to the place say the condition of the facilities and ... Read more »

Olive Grove: Phase 1 sold out, Phase 2 now open for sale

Olive Grove is the first-ever gated-and-guarded development in Bercham, Ipoh with 24-hour security. IPOH: YTL Land and Development Bhd announced that Phase 1 of Olive Grove is fully sold while ... Read more »

Cops arrest teen who pulled knife on elderly e-hailing driver

Screenshots of a video showing a teenager pointing a knife at an elderly e-hailing driver. PETALING JAYA: Police have arrested a 13-year-old boy for holding an elderly e-hailing driver at ... Read more »

Sprint Highway’s Semantan To KL Slip Road Fully Closed Until Dec 31

Sprint Highway’s Semantan To KL Slip Road Fully Closed Until Dec 31 If you’re a regular user of the Sprint expressway, you’ll need to do some planning for your trips ... Read more »

Genshin Impact Version 4.3 Leak Showcases Update to Domains

Genshin Impact Version 4.3 Leak Showcases Update to Domains New leaks reveals a quality-of-life update to Domains in Genshin Impact, making it easier for players to repeat and farm resources. ... Read more »

Urban Republic Warehouse Clearance: Get iPhone for as low as RM699 and many more

CG Computers will host the Urban Republic (UR) Warehouse Clearance from 30 November to 3 December at the Atria Shopping Gallery in Petaling Jaya. During the event, visitor can get ... Read more »

Malaysia has never experienced hyperinflation - Economy Ministry

Photo for illustrative purposes only – 123RF KUALA LUMPUR – Hyperinflation has never happened in Malaysia and the government hopes it will never happen, according to the Economy Ministry. It ... Read more »
Top List in the World