Johor polls: All candidates can use RTM channels to introduce themselves, says Comms Minister

JOHOR BARU: The government is willing to allow candidates contesting in the Johor state election, including from the Opposition, to use the channels provided by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) as a medium to introduce themselves to the voters.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa (pic) said the initiative was to complement efforts towards adopting a mature democratic process.

“Actually, they can, including the Opposition, as long as it is not abused. All candidates are the same and as in the Melaka state election, all candidates including Independent candidates and those from the Opposition are given the opportunity to introduce themselves.

“The people have a right to get to know them and make their own choices so, it should be no problem,” he told reporters after an interview with Johor FM at the Johor RTM headquarters here Saturday.

Also present were Bernama chief executive officer Datuk Mokhtar Hussain and Broadcasting Director-General Datuk Che Roslan Che Daud.

Annuar said RTM, particularly television and radio channels such as Johor FM, were given the opportunity to formulate suitable programmes during the state election, especially after the nomination process.

“It aims to display candidate information so that they are better known to the people. We also understand that the new standard operating procedures will have limitations in terms of candidate movements.

“This is where RTM can play a role by providing suitable space for them (candidates) in a fair and just manner,” he said.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the dates for the 15th Johor state election after a special meeting on Feb 9. - Bernama