Kuala Lumpur: Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia (GKMM) is ready to collaborate with the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) to uphold and safeguard media freedom in the country. GKMM president Mohamad Fauzi Ishak said the alliance, which represents 14 media clubs nationwide, including in Sabah and Sarawak, hopes the Communications Ministry will hold engagements to clarify how the MMC will comprehensively carry out its roles and functions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this collaboration would ensure the voices and welfare of grassroots media practitioners are considered in policies and initiatives related to the media industry. Mohamad Fauzi Ishak noted the importance of GKMM’s cooperation with the MMC, especially if both share similar objectives and responsibilities. He expressed optimism about collaborating with relevant parties to protect the rights and welfare of media practitioners nationwide.
Speaking after appearing on Bernama Radio’s ‘Jendela Fikir: HAWANA 2025 Edition – From Journalists, For Journalists’ programme, Mohamad Fauzi mentioned that Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil’s announcement regarding the MMC was eagerly anticipated by the alliance. Fahmi had previously stated that the MMC’s establishment aims to develop and implement a code of ethics for reporting to strengthen the journalism profession and ensure responsible news reporting by the media.
Further developments regarding the council are expected to be announced during the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2025 main celebration on June 14. Mohamad Fauzi emphasized GKMM’s commitment to supporting efforts to enhance professionalism and integrity among media practitioners, highlighting their role in educating the public.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by media practitioners under GKMM’s affiliated clubs, such as obtaining information from primary sources, ensuring accuracy and speed amidst technological advancements, and addressing welfare issues for both active and retired media practitioners. Despite these challenges, he sees them as transformations and revolutions in the industry that must be accepted and adapted to.
Mohamad Fauzi also mentioned the importance of leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT, for daily tasks. He stressed the need for continuous exposure and training to ensure journalism keeps pace with rapid technological advancements. Over 100 media practitioners under GKMM are expected to participate in the HAWANA 2025 celebration, scheduled to take place at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur from June 13 to 15, and which will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.