KUCHING: A strong working relationship between the media and the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) is crucial to ensure media organisations clearly understand the guidelines and responsibilities involved in producing accurate and accountable reporting.
Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir said the engagement session held between KDN and the two news agencies provided an open platform for dialogue to clarify legal boundaries as well as the duties of journalists and editors.
“The briefing delivered by the Head of the Regulatory Publishing Section, Enforcement and Control Division of KDN, Sahubar Ibrahim Ismail Gani, is important in reminding us of the guidelines we must adhere to.
“We truly appreciate his presence and his willingness to conduct this session,” he said.
He said this when delivering his remarks during the session held at a hotel here today (Nov 17).
Elaborating further, he said the guidelines set by KDN are not meant to stifle media creativity but instead serve as a framework to help journalists and editors understand the boundaries that must be respected in Malaysia’s diverse society.
“These guidelines are not obstacles. They are like a safety fence that keeps us within limits and prevents serious problems from arising.
“We must remain aware of sensitive issues involving the monarchy, religion, race, and relations between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak,” he stressed.
He emphasised that every individual within a media organisation journalists, sub-editors, editors and chief editors must act as responsible gatekeepers, rather than merely prioritising speed over accuracy.
“A chief editor cannot possibly check every page every day.
“So everyone in the newsroom must be responsible gatekeepers who remain conscious of the impact of every piece of information published,” he said.
He also reminded that any factual error can mislead the public and damage the credibility of a media organisation.
“We must not repeat past mistakes. Lightning should not strike the same place twice.
“If it happens again, strict action is justified.
“That is why it is important for all of us to be careful and fully understand the guidelines and laws that have been set,” he stressed.
He added that KDN’s presence during the session greatly helped clarify the rules that must be followed, serving as an important reminder to prevent incidents that could tarnish the credibility of the media.
