KUALA LUMPUR – A reporter who was fined RM1,000 by the Health Ministry has been urged to appeal against the fine.
Selangor Barisan Nasional information chief Isham Jalil said the reporter from Sin Chew Daily was alleged to have violated Covid-19 SOPs at a nomination centre in Johor.
In a Facebook live session today, Isham said the amount issued in the compound appears excessive, given that the reporter was on duty at the said centre.
“I read about this issue today. I want to comment further about it, but it’s not under my purview and the facts weren’t clear.
“It’s just that in my opinion, RM1,000 seems heavy for a reporter working on the field,” he said.
However, Isham said he refrains from taking sides on the matter, as he understands how media personnel operate, especially when tasked with gathering information.
“It’s not that reporters don’t want to comply with social distancing. But at the same time, we have to take into the account the presence of enforcement officers from the Health Ministry.
“I’m confident the reporter can have the fine reduced if he makes an appeal,” Isham added.
The reporter in question, Wan Kiang Yong, was issued the fine while on duty at the JKR Multipurpose Hall in Larkin this morning.
It is understood that the compound was issued when he was interviewing independent candidate Norramadan Buang.
Meanwhile, another reporter from Malaysia Gazette was only issued a warning. – The Vibes, February 26, 2022
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