MPI stresses ethical, factual reporting on disasters to preserve victim dignity and maintain good bilateral ties, especially in cross-border contexts
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) has emphasised that reporting on natural disasters, tragedies, and humanitarian issues must be ethical, factual, and compassionate.
MPI president Datuk Yong Soo Heong said the media bears a significant responsibility to shape public understanding while preserving victim dignity and safeguarding harmonious bilateral relations.
“In situations involving disasters and humanitarian crises, MPI stresses that journalistic reporting should not be driven by excessive emotion, sensationalism or narratives that could trigger misunderstandings,” he said in a statement.
Yong said reporting must instead be anchored in trust, factual accuracy and a thorough understanding of realities on the ground.
Referring to a recent natural disaster in Sumatra and Indonesia’s decision to decline foreign aid, Yong reminded media to exercise caution to prevent misinterpretation.
He said accurate, balanced, and prudent reporting is essential for maintaining good ties between neighbouring countries with shared history and culture.
“Malaysian media covering the disaster must maintain high ethical standards and demonstrate sensitivity towards the calamity affecting Aceh and North Sumatra,” he added.
Yong stated that media must respect policies and decisions set by the Indonesian government.
MPI advised local media to uphold solidarity by showing empathy and shared responsibility when reporting on humanitarian issues.
The institute highlighted that its professional training consistently emphasises understanding diplomatic implications and media social responsibility in crisis reporting.
“Ethical and principled journalists must prioritise humanitarian values, empathy and social responsibility in every report,” the statement read.
It added that the media should serve as a channel that unites and strengthens trust, especially during times of hardship.
