THE Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024, which was successfully passed in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, marks a significant step in enhancing the effectiveness of the media in Malaysia, according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi said the introduction of a self-regulation framework in the Bill underscores the independence of the media industry in the country. It also ensures that the fundamental right of the people to free speech remains intact and is not curtailed.
"The concept of self-regulation in this Bill signals that the media sector in Malaysia is autonomous, allowing it to perform its duties more effectively. If any issues arise, the media will be empowered to manage and address them through the council independently," Fahmi explained during a press conference after attending a fidyah rice distribution event in Lembah Pantai, organised by Ikhlas Com Travel & Umrah Sdn Bhd.
Fahmi went on to elaborate that he hopes the establishment of the MMC will also play a pivotal role in combating the spread of fake news. He believes that this can be achieved through the promotion of journalistic ethics, a critical aspect he expects the council to uphold.
"If the government were to intervene and enforce these standards, it could be perceived as restrictive," Fahmi continued. "However, if the industry itself sets the standards for journalism, determined by its own players, I believe this approach will be more sustainable and will better protect media freedom in Malaysia."
Additionally, Fahmi revealed that he plans to address various media-related concerns during the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) celebrations in June. One of the major challenges currently facing many media organizations is their profitability and the financial difficulties they encounter, which are primarily business-related concerns.
"Following the passage of this Bill, I have already met with the Protem Committee that helped draft the Bill, as well as with the Editors-in-Chief group. I have informed them that we are working on several initiatives to support media companies in Malaysia, and we aim to announce these initiatives during HAWANA in June," Fahmi said.
The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024, which passed its second reading in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, seeks to safeguard media freedom in the country, ensuring that the public continues to receive accurate, credible, and fair information. - February 28, 2025
