Kota Kinabalu: The State Government welcomed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) plan to license social media services effective January 1 next year, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“In this age of digital news dissemination, especially on social media, we have often seen how harmful news contents have flooded cyberspace.
“Whether it’s hate speech, racial and religious incitements, spreading of fake news, cyberbullying, character assassination and frauds. All such incidents can swiftly spread like wildfire, sowing discord and harmfully affecting many,” he said.
Hence, the MCMC’s plan to establish a code of conduct for social media platforms with actions to be taken against violators is welcomed, said the Chief Minister at the Sin Chew Daily’s 95th Anniversary celebrations and Sabah Celebrities Award ceremony at the Hakka Hall near here Tuesday.
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Hajiji said the State Government had been committed to maintaining a fair and just media environment, ensuring that all voices could be heard and all viewpoints respected.
“This respect and protection of press freedom are crucial cornerstones for social progress and democratic development. The State Government has been steadfast in this pursuit, supporting and co-sponsoring without fail, the annual premier Kinabalu Press Awards hosted by the Sabah Journalists Association to promote journalistic excellence and recognise journalism’s best works as well as to encourage and recognise new talents,” he said.
However, the Chief Minister said with press freedom also comes responsibility.
“Responsible reporting impacts the integrity of news reporting. Journalists and media organisations have a responsibility to uphold ethical standards, including verifying and cross-checking information with credible sources and providing balanced coverage to include all viewpoints.
“This will ensure their reporting remains neutral, objective, and free from undue influence,” he said.
On another note, he said Sin Chew Daily has come a long way, signifying its relevance as a news publication and as a news provider to inform and interpret news and other information of public interest.
“For 95 years, Sin Chew Daily has not only been a leader in the Malaysian press but also one of the most influential media outlets in the Asian region,” he said.
“Let us commit to promote press freedom and strive for a more open, inclusive, and progressive society. Together, we can all work towards combating misinformation and upholding the fundamental principles of transparency, integrity and accountability.
“We also look forward to Sin Chew Daily’s continuing efforts to leverage its media influence to contribute positively to Sabah’s progress and development,” he said.
Present were Chairman of Media Chinese International Limited (owner of Sin Chew Daily) Tiong Choon, among others.
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