Letter to editor
THE National Union of Journalists Peninsular Malaysia (NUJM) is concerned over the different validity term of period granted to online media journalists.
NUJM hoped that the Communications Ministry can provide an explanation for the different period of expiry for online portals’ media practitioners.
We understand that the Information Department is in the process of reviewing the standard operating procedures (SOP) for issuing media cards, including the period of validity.
NUJM calls on the ministry to re-consider reverting to the standard two-year period of validity when issuing media cards for all media practitioners without prejudice.
We hope there will be more transparency from the ministry on its plans for the media tag after review has been conducted the review.
Such an action by the ministry would only hinder journalists from carrying out their duties at government facilities that require them to present the media tags upon entry.
Given that the Communications Ministry has promised to expand the media industry to make it more inclusive, this afore-mentioned action by the ministry is seen as a step back. We are making this call to ensure that the welfare of journalists is protected when they carry out their duties as the fourth estate.
We would also like to bring to the unity government’s attention that it has promised to review and repeal the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (PPPA) and to form the media council which we hope will be done soon.
It seems like the more we ask for press freedom, the more they try to control and take it back in other ways. – March 5, 2024
Teh Athira Mohd Yusof is the National Union of Journalists Peninsular Malaysia’s (NUJM) secretary-general.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
