KUALA LUMPUR – Journalists should not be pressured into revealing the identity of their sources, as they have a right to protect their informants, said National Press Club president Datuk Ahirudin Attan.
However, Ahirudin, popularly known as Rocky Bru, said the press must hold themselves accountable by standing by their reports or taking appropriate measures if their sources are found to have provided inaccurate information.
“Only use (sources) in special cases. If a story is proven to be untrue, the news outlet would owe the authorities and readers an apology, nothing more than that.
“If a story is actually fake, the outlet should apologise to the authorities, but this is not an excuse or reason to change the way journalists work,” Ahirudin told Scoop.
He also reminded authorities who disagree with the content of source stories that they are able to issue clarification statements and request the news agency concerned to issue a correction.
“If authorities have issues with a publication, they should provide their response for future stories, as the current story might be inaccurate.
“In no way should they come in the way of the press trying to do their job,” he added.
Earlier, Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan also supported the views of Gerakan Media Merdeka and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia, emphasising that the confidentiality of sources is a crucial pillar of journalism.
The DAP lawmaker reminded that the confidentiality behind anonymous sources forms an important responsibility for journalists in their duties as a check and balance against the government.
He also said that this duty is a fundamental part of the journalists’ code of ethics.
“It is undeniable that the press is accountable for their reports, but their duty to protect sources is unquestionable,” Shahredzan posted on X.
On Tuesday, police confirmed that they are investigating an online news portal over a report claiming the impending transfers of several high-ranking officers out of the force to agencies under the Home Ministry.
The probe follows one report lodged over the matter, with investigations conducted under Section 505 of the Penal Code on public mischief and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil also advised media personnel who are facing police investigations – which could potentially include pressure to reveal unnamed sources – to fully cooperate with authorities.
He said that while his ministry respects the media’s right to protect the identity of its sources or whistleblowers, it is important to comply with existing laws. – August 8, 2024