Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the pivotal role of the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) in advising the government on enhancing media freedom, with a focus on identifying laws that may impede press freedom. He stated the council should establish clear guidelines on media freedom, particularly in Malaysia's multiracial and multireligious context.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar pointed out that while enhancing media freedom is essential, understanding its limitations is crucial. He tasked the Media Council with advising on legislation that restricts freedom and assured that their recommendations would be communicated to the Cabinet and Communication Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil for serious consideration. Anwar made these remarks during a briefing with editors-in-chief from local and international media.
Anwar clarified that the media's code of conduct should not be seen as unduly restricting media freedom. Instead, it should ensure media responsibility without compromising the broader principle of media freedom. He advocated for a sense of responsibility in media management and understanding of limits, emphasizing that the vision of media freedom should remain intact.
He also underscored the necessity for responsible media practices amid intense competition, which could sometimes lead to the exploitation of racial or religious sentiments. Anwar highlighted that this competition might drive some outlets to emphasize racial narratives, detracting from Malaysia's identity as a multiracial and multireligious nation.
The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024, passed by the Dewan Rakyat on February 26 and approved by the Dewan Negara on March 19, was gazetted on June 13 as the Malaysian Media Council Act 2025. This legislation represents a significant milestone for the media industry, following proposals since 1973 aimed at protecting media freedom and ensuring the public receives accurate, credible, and fair information.
On November 7, twelve individuals were elected to the MMC board during its first annual general meeting, representing media companies, journalists and media associations, and public and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).