KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 – Minister Fahmi Fadzil of the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia is poised to engage in discussions with his counterpart, Minister Nga Kor Ming from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, regarding the contentious appointment of “online ambassadors”. This proposal, spearheaded by Minister Nga’s ministry, seeks to deploy a team of 200 individuals to oversee online communication and combat misinformation.
While expressing initial openness to the initiative, Minister Fahmi has acknowledged concerns raised by various quarters regarding potential overlaps with existing government communication channels like J-Kom and Komuniti Madani under his purview. Stressing the need for seamless coordination in information dissemination, Fahmi plans to collaborate closely with Minister Nga to ensure clarity and effective implementation of the “online ambassadors” initiative.
The move has sparked debate among critics, including former director-general Puad Zarkashi and ex-minister Zuraida Kamaruddin, who have questioned its necessity and efficiency given the existing infrastructure. They advocate for prioritizing more pressing issues within the housing and local government sector. As deliberations proceed between ministries, efforts are underway to streamline governmental communication strategies while addressing concerns raised by stakeholders.
