SEGAMAT: The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) is set to take on a more active role once it holds its first annual general meeting (AGM) and elects a new board next week, says Teo Nie Ching.
The Deputy Communications Minister said the formation of a member-elected leadership would mark an important transition towards a more independent and empowered media body.
“The AGM is being organised by the founding committee appointed by the government.
“After that, the council’s committee will no longer be appointed, but elected by its members,” she said when met at the fringes of the Johor DAP annual convention here on Sunday (Nov 2).
Teo said clarity would come after the AGM in response to a recent comment from Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) president Datuk Yong Soo Heong, who said that the MMC had been quiet despite being formed last year.
“I believe once the committee is elected by members, the council will be able to play a more active role,” she said.
Teo urged those who have not registered as MMC members to do so quickly so they can attend the AGM and support the council.
She said the long-awaited council, an idea first mooted in the 1970s, represented an opportunity for the industry to strengthen professionalism and independence.
The MMC’s inaugural AGM will take place in Kuala Lumpur on Friday (Nov 7).
The meeting will also discuss a formal membership structure, a code of conduct and a complaints mechanism.
At least 25% of board members will come from Sabah and Sarawak to ensure inclusive representation.
The MMC is expected to function as an independent self-regulatory body tasked with setting ethical standards, mediating disputes and fostering press freedom and professionalism.
Key functions would include providing guidelines on sensitive reporting - particularly cases involving children - where media organisations often face differing expectations from non-governmental organisations and the public.
The council would also provide a platform for parties who felt reporting was unfair to lodge complaints for resolution.
