M.Krishnamoorthy
A media coach, adjunct professor and author
Many Press freedom groups have raised concerns about whether the launch of the Code of Ethics for Journalists could be used to extend government control over the media.
Some have expressed that it is not for the Government to decide on an ethics code for journalists.
The Code of Ethics is supposed to act as a compass for media practitioners, and the accreditation of media cards is not meant to stifle press freedom.
The Code of Ethics for Journalists was launched on 20th February 2024.
Yong Soo Heong, a former Bernama chief executive officer and editor-in-chief, said people questioned the need for such a code.
“So much angst was expressed over something done in good faith. Some even worried that adherence to the code might become a criterion for media accreditation, thus potentially restricting press freedom. Some contended that the soon-to-be-formed Majlis Media Malaysia (MMM) should be discussed first before an updated code is proposed,” Yong said in his column published in the News Straits Times on 5th April 2024.
Yong, who is also the president of the Malaysian Press Institute, added: “But the establishment of MMM still requires a lot of work despite the sterling efforts of Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching in getting all stakeholders to hammer out a robust document before it's tabled in Parliament.
“While it's salutary to say that MMM should be established first, the rate at which events unfold in this country doesn't afford us the luxury of time. Let's not forget the tinderbox situation we've been in for the past three weeks over the KK Mart controversy.
“Journalists must be mindful not to play into the hands of mischief-makers or political opportunists. That's where the code of ethics comes in handy. I took a long, hard look at the code issued by the Information Department. Primarily, it was an adaptation of an earlier one by the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) in 1989 to reflect the current times.
“The Information Department was thorough, engaging many experts, including media practitioners and academicians, before launching the code. It also reviewed 15 research studies and similar codes in India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines.
“The code incorporates eight key principles, emphasising transparency, integrity, fairness, and responsible reporting. The authorities believe that this code will enhance journalistic standards, guide media professionals in their work and maintain media credibility,” Yong added.
Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (www.imkrishna.net) is a media coach, adjunct professor and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German and Australian Television networks and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns.
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