KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Code of Ethics for Journalists launched today will be used as a basis to issue media accreditation cards by the Information Department, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
The 1989 edition of the code of ethics, developed by the Malaysian Press Institute, has been used for the same purpose since then.
“The Information Department has used the 1989 code as the basis to issue and revoke media accreditation cards.
“The (new) code of ethics will also be used as an official document in the application process for media accreditation cards issued by the department,” Fahmi said in the preface of the code of ethics.
He launched the new code earlier today, noting that this was the first time it had been revised since 35 years ago.
In the government’s fight against fake news, the code, among others, is to ensure the validity and accuracy of information, Fahmi said.
Media accreditation cards by the Information Department are used as identification for journalists operating here and are typically required for those covering government-related events.
In November last year, PAS mouthpiece Harakah had the media accreditation cards of its reporters revoked over the juxtaposition of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s photo in front of an Israel flag. It also published an article questioning the unity government’s stance on Palestine.
The daily’s portal, Harakahdaily, later removed the image, and Fahmi said the party organ could file appeals against the revocation. – February 20, 2024