KUALA LUMPUR – The updated Malaysian Code of Ethics for Journalists does not curtail media freedom, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, as he dismisses claims to the contrary made by certain quarters.
He said the code, which was introduced in 1989 by the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI), was revised to enhance its relevance to contemporary challenges, such as the prevalence of artificial intelligence and social media.
“This has nothing to do with curtailing media freedom. No such thing.
“If you were to compare the two documents, they are almost the same. The preamble is the same. There are still eight key points in the same document. It’s nothing to do with curbing media freedom.
“Those who claim that it is a new document may have forgotten that the MPI first released it in 1989. There were old elements in the code of ethics, such as curbing communism, which is no longer an issue in Malaysia because it does not exist. So, it’s a bit anachronistic.
“But we now have new technologies such as artificial intelligence and social media that didn’t exist back then. So, there is a need to update the code of ethics.
“I think the comments certain quarters make are unfair to MPI,” he said at an event here today.
Journalists’ group Gerakan Media Merdeka had slammed the decision to make adherence to the new code a criterion for journalists to obtain accreditation, a requirement that was not in place before.
Rights group Lawyers for Liberty, on the other hand, said the government should have formed an independent Malaysian media council first before approving any codes of ethics to limit interference.
Earlier, Fahmi officiated Maxis and Huawei’s first 5.5G technology trial in Malaysia and Southeast Asia at the KLCC Esplanade here.
Separately, he said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) would look into the issue of intellectual and content theft by irresponsible internet users.
“I see that the issue of copying and pasting, taking the work of others, and claiming it without verifying the facts is a concern.
“There is a basic system in which the owner of the work could file a complaint and have actions taken against them; however, MCMC will look into establishing a guide for such offences.”
Earlier this week, Fahmi launched the code of ethics for journalists, which serves as a guideline for media agencies to carry out their duties, thus promoting the professionalism and integrity of the media as a source of news and information trusted by the people.
Developed by the Communications Ministry through the Information Department, the code outlines eight fundamental ethics that underscore the responsibilities and standards expected of journalists.
These include being the voice of a plural society, being transparent and with integrity, being fair in conveying information, the validity and accuracy of information, independence from personal interests, and protecting the privacy and confidentiality of sources. – February 22, 2024