Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says the Malaysian Media Council will identify laws affecting media freedom and define its limits in a multiracial society
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) could play an important role in advising the government on efforts to strengthen media freedom.
He said the council should identify specific laws or provisions that may affect press freedom and outline clear parameters for it.
Anwar stated the council must recommend where appropriate limits should be drawn, particularly within Malaysia’s multiracial and multireligious society.
“You must enhance the level of freedom – media freedom – in this country. What are the limitations? Still, the race and religious card,” he said at a briefing session with editors-in-chief.
He added that the MMC’s advice would be conveyed to the Cabinet and Communication Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil for serious consideration.
According to Anwar, the code of conduct should not be perceived as overly restrictive to the broader principle of media freedom.
He agreed it should not affect the vision of media freedom that the government strongly advocates.
At the same time, Anwar stressed the importance of responsible media practices in the face of intense competition.
He noted that such competition could at times lead to the exploitation of racial or religious sentiments.
The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024 was passed by the Dewan Rakyat in February and approved by the Dewan Negara in March.
It marks a significant milestone for the industry after proposals dating back to 1973.
The council aims to safeguard media freedom and ensure the public receives accurate, credible and fair information.
In November, 12 individuals were elected to the MMC board during its inaugural annual general meeting.
They represent media companies, journalists and media associations, and public and non-governmental organisations. – Bernama
