Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) is working to standardise complaint management mechanisms across major media organisations to position itself as the primary platform for resolving disputes involving the industry. MMC board member Datin Paduka Esther Ng stated that the council's key performance indicator (KPI) is to ensure the MMC becomes the 'go-to forum' for all forms of media-related complaints, amid the current fragmented complaint-handling landscape.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ng highlighted that the existing complaint management process remains fragmented across different platforms and organisations, although cases involving specific media organisations may still be referred to the respective companies for internal handling. She mentioned that efforts are underway to establish complaints bureaus within all media houses, particularly large ones like Star Media Group and Media Prima Bhd, to streamline the process. Ng noted that while there is an existing setup, it currently lacks uniformity, leading to confusion among complainants.

Earlier, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the need for the MMC to play a larger role in handling media-related issues and suggested that reporting disputes should be resolved through the council as the primary arbiter. Ng also addressed Malaysia's decline in the Reporters Without Borders Index, citing legislative and media environment concerns. She stressed the importance of protecting press freedom, as the media serves as a reflection of society and a custodian of historical records.

Ng underscored the crucial role of the press in recording public sentiment and aspirations, stating that the media must be given the freedom to fulfill its responsibilities. She emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure the press can adequately serve its purpose. Meanwhile, fellow MMC board member Ashwad Ismail described the ongoing efforts to build trust between journalists, regulators, and enforcement agencies as a long-term process requiring sustained industry engagement.

Ismail added that continuous engagement with media players, the media industry, and journalists is vital to strengthening the council's effectiveness and credibility. He highlighted the importance of broader engagement beyond newsroom operations to build trust and credibility with stakeholders. The MMC, established in February last year, is an independent self-regulatory body aimed at upholding journalistic ethics, formulating a code of conduct, and safeguarding the welfare of media practitioners. The council includes representatives from media organisations, practitioners, and public interest groups, ensuring representation from Sabah and Sarawak as well as gender balance.