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THE Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024 represents a historic moment for the country's media industry, marking a significant step forward in its evolution.
The bill culminates over five decades of rigorous discussions and negotiations aimed at establishing a dedicated body to oversee media affairs and ensure the integrity of journalism.
Datuk Yong Soo Heong, president of the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI), told Bernama that he lauded the government’s efforts, particularly those of the Ministry of Communications, in actively engaging media professionals throughout the process.
He highlighted the involvement of the protem committee, which worked diligently to address and balance the diverse interests within Malaysia's media sector during the formation of the council.
Yong said while the idea of creating a media council was first proposed as early as 1973, it wasn’t until the beginning of 2023 that real momentum was gained, with earnest discussions and deliberations giving shape to what is now the MMC Bill.
“The MMC Bill is a groundbreaking piece of legislation,” Yong stated in a press release today. “Its clarity on a wide range of functions—including setting industry standards, developing a code of conduct for media practitioners, and promoting ethical journalism—marks a pivotal shift towards strengthening media independence and safeguarding the rights of journalists.”
He also pointed to the Bill’s provisions, which empower the MMC to regulate the ethical and professional conduct of media professionals, signaling a significant step toward self-regulation within the media industry.
In his statement, Bernama cited Yong expressing his appreciation for the Bill’s encouragement of dialogue between the media, the government, and the public.
"This is a key development, as it fosters communication and collaboration, allowing media practitioners, the government, and the general public to engage in meaningful discussions and address shared concerns."
Moreover, the creation of the MMC is expected to play a central role in recommending reforms related to media independence laws.
The Bill also positions the council to facilitate the professional development and training of journalists, which, according to Yong, will bring long-term benefits to the local media industry.
The Malaysian media landscape achieved a monumental milestone today with the Dewan Rakyat's passage of the MMC Bill 2024.
This legislation is seen as a critical step toward preserving press freedom while ensuring that the public receives accurate, credible, and fair information.
The formation of the MMC will provide a platform for media professionals, industry stakeholders, and the government to come together.
The council will help tackle industry challenges and develop strategic solutions, all while steering Malaysia’s journalism sector toward a more robust and ethical future. - February 27, 2025
