Kuala Lumpur: Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has described the passing of the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024 in the Dewan Rakyat today as a major victory for media freedom in the country. He highlighted this as a historic moment for the media industry, emphasizing that the idea for such a bill was first proposed in 1973.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi stated that the next steps involve establishing a founding board, with hopes that the Malaysian Media Council can be formed by mid-year if everything proceeds smoothly. He acknowledged that there is still a long journey ahead, but this development marks an important milestone for media freedom in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, MMC pro tem committee chairman Premesh Chandran expressed pride in the bill’s approval, noting it ensures a more robust legal framework for media regulation. He commended the pro tem committee members for their dedication over nearly five years, working without pay to bring this law to fruition. Chandran expressed hope that a strong media will amplify the voice of the people.

The Dewan Rakyat’s approval of the MMC bill aims to safeguard media freedom, ensuring the public receives accurate, credible, and fair information.