Fahmi tells media councils to consider viewer sensitivities, ethical guidelines
KUALA LUMPUR: Immediate discussions are needed between the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) and the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) to identify appropriate ethical guidelines for reporting and broadcasting videos related to accidents or tragedies, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said the move was necessary following complaints received by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding several video clips of accidents uploaded on social media accounts owned by media companies without proper censorship.
He added that uploading footage related to accidents, such as uncensored dashboard camera footage, especially those containing tragic or emotional elements, could traumatise viewers.
“This matter requires attention because, at present, we have not yet restricted social media access for those aged 16 and below.
“As a result, it is possible that some viewers are children,” he said this at a press conference yesterday after witnessing the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding between the MCMC and the Securities Commission to cooperate in curbing scam activities.
Fahmi stressed that news reporting must be balanced, especially when the content is graphic or gory.
He made the remark when asked to comment on claims by certain quarters that media content guidelines were allegedly contrary to journalistic practices, which require freedom and transparency of information for the public.
He noted that actions taken by MCMC are based on the law and guided by complaints received.
While the media has a responsibility to report news, Fahmi noted that there are circumstances where their online platforms must take appropriate action against violent or graphic content, as well as material that breaches community guidelines.
“To media practitioners, we urge the implementation of self-control, but discussions on the matter also need to take place.
“It is appropriate to give the industry an opportunity to come together and deliberate on this issue,” he said.
On a separate note, Fahmi called on the MMC to hold talks with local media companies and organisations to gather feedback on the implementation of a work-from-home (WFH) policy for the sector.
He said that the Information Department will take the necessary steps on the matter while also gathering public feedback.
He added that the Public Service Department’s (JPA) director-general will liaise with the Cabinet and the ministry on the matter.
Any policy decision made by the ministry, he said, will prioritise the welfare of media personnel nationwide.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the WFH policy for the public sector and government-linked companies will take effect from April 15 as a proactive measure to address the global energy crisis.
On Thursday, the JPA announced that federal civil servants stationed in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya as well as Selangor and all state capitals with a one-way commute exceeding 8km, are eligible to work from home beginning April 15.
