Complaints Against Media Should Be Made Through Malaysian Media Council’s Official Channels – Fahmi

SHAH ALAM: Members of the public who have complaints or are dissatisfied with media reports are advised to use the official channels provided by the Malaysian Media Council (MMC).

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the mechanism should be used if there are news headlines or media content deemed inappropriate or that raise concerns.

“I believe there are several matters that should be referred to the Malaysian Media Council.

“Firstly, when it comes to reporting by the media itself, I would advise the public that if there are news headlines or any matters they wish to raise with the media, the proper mechanism is through the official complaints channel provided by the Malaysian Media Council,” he said.

He was commenting on reports regarding allegations of insults directed at media practitioners while covering developments involving Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Meanwhile, Fahmi also reminded all parties, including journalists and “netizen journalists”, to respect Dr Mahathir and his family by giving them space and time.

He said the family’s request for the former prime minister to be given space should be respected, including by those seeking his reaction.

“At the same time, yesterday I posted content on my TikTok account reminding everyone of several things.

“Firstly, we should respect Tun Dr Mahathir and his family. We should give them space, and members of the public who may wish to approach Tun Dr Mahathir at this time to ask how he feels should refrain from doing so.

“Give him time, as requested by the family’s representative, Datuk Seri Mukhriz,” he said.

Fahmi also said authorities were tracking several accounts identified as having produced highly offensive content, including material allegedly misusing artificial intelligence (AI) technology involving Dr Mahathir during the funeral of his late wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.

“I personally saw that the account had disappeared. We are not yet certain whether it was a fake account.

“However, the MCMC, together with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), is tracking down those responsible for producing highly offensive content in this matter,” he said.

He also reminded media practitioners to give the family space and respect their request during this period.

“To my friends in the media, I would also like to remind you to give them space and respect the family’s request.

“And as the family is grieving, let us pray that Tun Dr Mahathir and his family remain strong during this difficult time,” he said.

Awani