KUCHING: An online portal has been criticised for what was described as irresponsible and unethical reporting, with warnings that provocative narratives and unfounded assumptions could confuse the public and undermine relations between the federal government and the Borneo states.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said a social media portal known as Berita 757 exemplified journalism that failed to observe basic professional norms and ethics.
“Berita 757 is an example of an irresponsible news portal on social media. In my view, journalistic norms and ethics are not observed at all.
“This is an example of imperfect journalism and something that should not be practised,” he told reporters when met at the Walk For Health Program with Premier here on Sunday (Feb 1).
Abdullah said reports had previously been lodged against the portal, but questioned why it continued to operate despite concerns being raised with the relevant authorities.
“I do not know who is behind Berita 757, but from our long observation of its reporting behaviour, it is clear that many of its reports are irresponsible and often refer vaguely to sources such as ‘political experts’ or ‘observers’,” he said.
He stressed that accredited and responsible journalists clearly state their sources of information and analysis, in line with journalistic ethics that are consistently emphasised at national platforms such as ‘Hari Wartawan Nasional’.
“Every year, including by the Minister of Communications, there are reminders about journalistic ethics, not to twist facts, not to promote provocative tones, and not to create narratives that cause anxiety or divide the people,” he said.
Abdullah expressed suspicion that the portal was being used by certain parties to attack the interests and rights of Sabah and Sarawak, particularly in matters involving federal-state relations.
“Their tone, accusing us of being greedy or arrogant, is actually a reflection of themselves. Since independence, Sabah and Sarawak have always practised tolerance and preferred negotiation in political and policy matters,” he said.
He noted, however, that provocative rhetoric had intensified of late, and warned that if left unchecked, it could mislead members of the public who were unfamiliar with the complexities of federal-state relations, especially issues involving legal claims over oil and gas.
“These are legal matters. Not everyone understands them, but irresponsible assumptions and speculation can create public unease and are not healthy for maintaining good relations between the federal government, Sarawak and Sabah,” he said.
Abdullah reiterated that Sarawak remains committed to Malaysia and that ongoing disputes, including those brought before the courts, should be resolved through legal processes.
“As the Premier has always advised, we should not be overly reactive to provocation. He prefers diplomacy and discussion rather than provocation. If a matter is before the court, let the court decide,” he said.
He pointed out that the legal action in question was initiated by PETRONAS, not Sarawak, and that any speculation outside the court process should be disregarded.
At the same time, Abdullah acknowledged political concerns arising from the Petroleum Development Act, noting that PETRONAS ultimately answers to the Prime Minister, which had led some quarters to speculate on political influence behind certain actions.
“Despite these suspicions, we continue to cooperate within the unity government at the federal level and will do so until the next election,” he said.
Abdullah said the relevant ministers and authorities were aware of the reports and complaints that had been made.
“I believe the responsible minister is aware. Reports have been lodged. But I am not sure why such outlets are still allowed to continue with half-baked reports, unclear sources and questionable facts,” he said.
Abdullah said such portals should instead serve as negative examples for journalism students and practitioners.
“If you want to see an example of irresponsible, unethical and immoral journalism, look at Berita 757. That is not what you should do if you want to be a journalist with dignity and integrity,” he said.
Previously, the portal had uploaded a news video quoting an observer who claimed that the PETRONAS issue would not have escalated into a national crisis had Sarawak not been “aggressive and greedy” from the outset.
The video was published under the headline ‘JANGAN MAIN SENTIMEN MA63, SARAWAK PUNCA PETRONAS KE MAHKAMAH’, and included the statement: “Do not twist the facts – the PETRONAS issue would not have intensified if Sarawak had not been greedy and pressured the Federal Government.”
