Kuala lumpur: The establishment of the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) will allow issues related to the media industry to be addressed more inclusively, sustainably, and independently, free from government interference, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said. Fahmi stated that MMC will operate independently from the Communications Ministry and will be given full space to carry out its responsibilities under its designated functions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi expressed hope that the establishment of the MMC will help manage the challenges faced by colleagues in the media industry in a more inclusive, sustainable, and independent manner. He emphasized the importance of enabling various stakeholders to ensure that the media remains independent, self-reliant, ethical, and responsible. Fahmi spoke at a press conference after attending the ceremony for the handing over of appointment letters to the MMC founding board members.

Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin. Fahmi presented appointment letters to six of the 12 founding board members of the MMC, who were selected for their expertise, experience, and contributions in journalism, media, academia, and communications.

The appointments follow the enactment of the Malaysian Media Council Act 2025 (Act 868), which came into force on June 14. The Act aims to safeguard media freedom and ensure the public receives accurate, credible, and fair information. Fahmi previously announced that the MMC Founding Board comprises 12 individuals representing four categories: media companies; media associations, media practitioners, and independent journalists; and non-media professionals.

He mentioned that the government is ready to assist the MMC in legal and financial aspects to ensure its smooth establishment, particularly during its early operations. Fahmi expressed belief that the MMC could become fully self-sustaining in the future and stated that it would be up to the Founding Board to decide on its operational model, with government support available if needed.

Regarding funding, Fahmi noted that the Communications Ministry is prepared to discuss the financial needs of the MMC with its Founding Board. He mentioned that discussions would be held to understand the board’s requirements, with some funds available from the ministry.

Fahmi also announced that the first MMC Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Nov 7, with the location to be announced later. It is at this AGM that the new members or MMC Board will be officially elected to lead the council moving forward.