Summary
- Complaints against journalists to be referred to the Malaysian Media Council first.
- New process aims to ensure fair and independent review.
- PM says journalists should not face automatic investigations.
- Press freedom ranking affected by enforcement actions and platform policies.
Full Article
KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — Anwar Ibrahim said complaints involving journalists from recognised media organisations must first be referred to the Malaysian Media Council (MMM).
Before any investigation or enforcement action is taken. Speaking during Ministers’ Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar said the new mechanism is intended to ensure complaints are handled fairly, transparently and independently.
Preventing journalists from being automatically subjected to investigations or prosecution simply because a complaint has been lodged.
He stressed that while journalists remain subject to the law, they should not be penalised merely for reporting critically on government agencies.
The Prime Minister added that the MMM will serve as the first level of review before authorities decide whether further action is necessary.
On Malaysia’s decline in the World Press Freedom Index, Anwar said the ranking was influenced by enforcement actions involving media organisations.
As well as social media platforms removing online content based on their own policies rather than government directives.
