The government has not yet discussed repealing the Printing Presses and Publications Act (PPPA) 1984, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
However, he refused to comment when asked if he personally thought the act should be repealed.
“We have not had that discussion.
“Much of the focus is on the form and function of the Media Council and subsequently to bring the bill to the attorney-general as well as to Parliament,” Fahmi told reporters after attending the World Press Freedom Forum 2023 in Kuala Lumpur today.
In its election manifesto, Pakatan Harapan promised to review and abolish laws that restrict freedom of speech, including the PPPA.
However, since the coalition came into power in November, little effort has been made towards realising the pledge.
Responsible journalism
Fahmi also stressed the importance of ethics in journalism.
“We do not want to be misinformed with news that is not true or carries unfounded facts or false stories.
“Journalistic ethics should be the core and pillar of an independent media.
“I believe that journalistic ethics will be one of the things that we hope the Media Council will be able to uphold once it is formed,” he said.
On May 28, Fahmi said his ministry was committed to forming the Media Council, with the bill expected to be tabled in Parliament by March next year.
This is the government’s commitment to continue enhancing media freedom and assist media practitioners to face challenges, he added.
Fahmi noted that the bill is in its final stage of drafting and that his ministry will soon conduct engagement sessions with media industry players. - Mkini
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