KUALA LUMPUR, 28 February 2025 – The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024 or MMC Bill 2024 will be presented for its second reading in the Dewan Rakyat on 4th March, will be marking a crucial step in Malaysia’s journey towards greater media independence and self-regulation. The bill, if passed, will lay the foundation for an autonomous regulatory body, ensuring press freedom, ethical journalism, and media accountability.

The MMC Bill 2024 Vision: Enhancing Media Self-Regulation

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, who presented the bill for the first reading in Parliament today, emphasized its long-standing significance:

“The idea of forming an independent media council was first introduced in 1973. With the tabling of the MMC Bill, we are committed to fostering a media environment that upholds integrity, accountability, and professional ethics.”

The bill seeks to empower the media industry by granting it self-regulatory authority, ensuring that journalistic integrity is upheld without undue interference.

Key Features of the MMC Bill 2024

1. Independent Media Oversight – The MMC will function as a self-regulatory body, ensuring media practitioners adhere to ethical journalism standards.
2. Code of Conduct for Journalists – Establishing a professional code of ethics that fosters responsible reporting.
3. Public Complaints and Mediation – Providing mechanisms to address grievances against media organizations.
4. Training and Development – Conducting programs for capacity building and professional upskilling within the industry.

Industry Reactions: Mixed Responses from Stakeholders

While the bill is seen as a positive step towards press freedom, it has also sparked debates.

The Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) welcomed the bill, stating:

“The MMC Bill offers clear regulatory guidelines for ethical journalism. A structured approach to media oversight will benefit both practitioners and the public.”

Meanwhile, media advocacy groups such as Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) have called for further transparency in the bill’s implementation, ensuring that press freedom is not undermined by unnecessary government influence.

Government’s Position: A Step Towards Free and Fair Media

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil reassured stakeholders that the government remains committed to ensuring the bill aligns with international standards of press freedom:

“The MMC Bill 2024 is not meant to control the media but to empower it. We envision a media landscape that is independent, fair, and accountable to the public.”

What’s Next for MMC Bill 2024

The MMC Bill 2024 is currently under deliberation in the Dewan Rakyat, with further discussions and potential amendments expected before it proceeds to a vote. Media organizations and stakeholders will continue to play a role in shaping its final framework.

As Malaysia navigates this transformative moment for its media landscape, all eyes are on the Dewan Rakyat’s upcoming decision on this historic bill.

Stay updated with ForwardMalaysia.my for in-depth coverage on press freedom, government policies, and media reforms in Malaysia.