Kuala lumpur: An editorial structure built on rigorous fact-checking, multiple layers of review, and adherence to journalistic ethics remains the key factor that distinguishes professional media organizations from citizen journalists. Media Prima Berhad senior executive producer and news presenter Mior Abdul Malek Raiyani emphasized that public trust in mainstream media remains strong because it serves as a platform for verifying information amid the flood of unfiltered content on social media. He noted that although traditional media faces pressure to match the speed of social media, it cannot compromise on accuracy and accountability.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mior Abdul Malek explained that the trust viewers and followers place in mainstream media stems from its editorial structure. Information gathered in the field goes through several layers of scrutiny, from reporters and editors to chief editors for major stories. This process ensures that the news delivered is credible and reliable. While social media may be faster, the accuracy of the information remains in question. Losing public trust is the greatest disaster any media organization can face, he emphasized. He made these remarks during Bernama TV's Ruang Bicara program titled Media Integrity, the Pulse of Public Trust, which also featured Astro Awani senior editor and senior host Nazri Kahar as a guest panelist via an online link.
Nazri commented on the transformation of modern newsrooms, stating that mainstream media organizations must adopt a Digital First approach and redefine the concept of prime time to remain relevant and competitive. With newsrooms no longer confined to physical offices, journalists and editors can operate from virtually any location, particularly when covering breaking news. Nazri highlighted the importance of delivering important updates immediately through platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and others, while maintaining journalistic ethics and adhering to the regulations of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). Mainstream media offers news that is verified and credible, he stressed.
On the growing practice of mainstream media citing viral social media content, both panelists agreed that news organizations must be more selective and responsible, avoiding being driven by the fear of missing out (FOMO). Mior Abdul Malek suggested that mainstream media should add value to viral content by conducting fact-checks, pursuing follow-up reports, and helping to address issues raised, while also being sensitive to the emotions of families affected by incidents.
As election season approaches, Nazri reminded media practitioners to uphold the principle of neutrality and safeguard their personal credibility, even when using personal social media accounts. He underscored that the primary role of mainstream media is to provide fair, fact-based reporting and analysis that enables the public to make informed decisions. This responsibility distinguishes mainstream media from content creators and digital influencers who are not bound by the same journalistic standards and ethical responsibilities.