PETALING JAYA: More must be done to safeguard media independence, strengthen newsroom sustainability and rebuild public trust in journalism, following Malaysia’s drop in global press freedom rankings, says the Malaysian Media Council (MMC).
In conjunction with World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the council called for a renewed commitment to the fundamental role of a free, ethical and responsible press in a democratic society.
“This year, World Press Freedom Day comes at a critical moment for journalism in Malaysia and around the world.
“The 2026 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders has placed global press freedom at its lowest level in 25 years, while Malaysia has fallen seven places to 95th out of 180 countries.
“This should be treated not as a point of political blame, but as a serious national signal that more needs to be done to protect media independence, strengthen newsroom sustainability and restore public trust in journalism,” it said in a statement yesterday.
The MMC noted that journalism in Malaysia continues to face mounting pressures, with newsrooms operating in an increasingly challenging economic environment.
“Journalists continue to face legal threats, online harassment, safety risks and public distrust.
“At the same time, misinformation, artificial intelligence, platform disruption and declining media revenues are reshaping how information is produced, distributed and consumed,” it said.
The council called for stronger protections for journalists, restraint in the use of criminal laws against media practitioners, enhanced newsroom ethics, better access to information and sustained support to ensure the industry’s economic viability.
“MMC is now working to operationalise its complaints mechanism, strengthen its Code of Conduct, engage media organisations and support professional development for journalists and editors.
“These efforts are part of a broader commitment to build a media environment where the public has confidence in the press, and where the press can carry out its work without unnecessary fear or interference.”
Meanwhile, MMC board member and Code of Conduct and Complaints Committee chair Datin Paduka Esther Ng said press freedom must be protected as a public right.
“Freedom of the press should not be a luxury. The media is the mirror which reflects the creed and core of the people of the land.
“The Fourth Estate has a vital job to do – to stand up for the aspirations, fears, anger and gratitude of the society it represents.
“That mirror belongs not just to the press, but to the very people it stands up for. It is our job to protect it,” said Ng, who is also Star Media Group chief content officer.
Another board member, Mariah Doksil, said press freedom must also be understood through the realities faced by journalists on the ground.
“Press freedom is not just about journalists. It is about the public’s right to know, the people’s voices being heard and our shared commitment to the truth,” said Mariah, who is also Sabah Journalist Association president.
Board member Prof Dr Zaharom Nain said Malaysia’s decline in the press freedom index warrants serious reflection, particularly in light of official commitments to media freedom.
In conjunction with World Press Freedom Day, the MMC is inviting journalists, media workers, editors, students, civil society groups and the public to attend the Media Solidarity Festival 2026 at PARC Subang on May 10.
