KUALA LUMPUR – The newly-formed Malaysian Media Council (MMM) has faced growing questions over its open membership system, with some critics suggesting that it may dilute the Council's ability to effectively uphold media standards.
Speaking on the 'Trick Lama' podcast, MMM Deputy Chairman Premesh Chandran defended the council's standards, discussing its mission and broad membership categories.
The veteran journalist who co-founded Malaysiakini, explained that the MMM’s role is to promote ethical journalism, safeguard media freedom, and act as an avenue for addressing media-related complaints in Malaysia.
However, Premesh clarified that the MMM is not meant to be a regulatory body but rather a transitional platform for media self-regulation.
"The role of the MMM is clear: we aim to promote standards of journalistic ethics, encourage responsible media freedom, and serve as a channel for handling complaints about media reports in Malaysia," said Premesh, who is also the founder of the bilingual news portal Malaysiakini.
'Trick Lama' is hosted by Big Boom Media Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Zainul Arifin Mohammed Isa; Group Executive Director, Datuk Ahirudin Attan (better known as Rocky Bru); and Group Editor-in-Chief, Terence Fernandez. Big Boom Media is the publisher of Scoop.
One of the points raised in the podcast was the ease with which anyone can become a member of the Council, even if they are not directly involved in the media industry.
During the podcast Terence had noted that MMM’s broad membership structure was so accessible that "even a grandmother can become a member."
Premesh confirmed the inclusivity of the MMM, with membership fees as low as RM10 under Category C, which is open to the public and NGOs. This is in stark contrast to the more industry-specific Categories A (for media companies) and B (for journalists and media associations).
"Media today no longer belongs solely to those who work in the newsroom," Premesh explained. "The media now functions for the broader public interest, and reflects the interests of society as a whole. Politicians, readers, and even parents all have a stake in the national discourse."
While the Council aims to be a space for wider participation, Premesh emphasised that membership alone is not enough to influence its decisions. "The real challenge is how members can actively contribute," he said. "It's not just about being a member, but the extent to which one is willing to engage in committees, contribute ideas, and take part in discussions."
Premesh acknowledged that the true value of the MMM lies in the commitment of those who are willing to dedicate time and effort to shape its direction. "It's about engagement," he said. "To make an impact, members must be directly involved."
The council was officially established on July 15, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s media reform journey.
Its formation was spearheaded by the Communications Ministry, with strong backing from Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, who had long championed the idea of a self-regulatory media body. The government’s role was instrumental in facilitating the council’s legal framework, appointing the founding board, and ensuring that the council would operate independently from direct state control.
Fahmi described the MMC as a “historic achievement” and emphasised that it would not be a government mouthpiece, but rather a platform for media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and resolve disputes fairly.
The council’s establishment followed extensive consultations with journalists, editors, media owners, and civil society organisations, many of whom had advocated for such a body since the 1970s.
On November 7, the MMC held its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM), where 12 members were elected to represent three categories: media companies, journalist and media associations, and the public or civil society.
These members came from across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, ensuring regional representation. Half of the elected council members were women, reflecting a commitment to gender balance and inclusivity.
Premesh served as interim chairperson during the council’s formation phase.
The council’s mandate includes upholding ethical journalism, fostering public trust, and providing a mechanism for resolving complaints about media content. It is also touted as a long-overdue step toward strengthening democratic discourse and safeguarding press freedom in Malaysia. - November 21, 2025
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