In light of recent events surrounding the Forest City casino resort debacle, it has become increasingly apparent that certain media outlets including those outside Malaysia are engaging in the dissemination of false and derogatory information. Not only does this undermine public trust, but it also tarnishes the reputation of the MADANI government and jeopardizes the integrity of the Malaysia royal institution

The publication of news seems to us an insults or belittles the MADANI government, while dragging the royal institution into disrepute, is a clear violation of the principles of respect, responsibility, and restraint – the three R’s essential in ethical journalism. Similarly such actions not only betray the trust of the public but also contravene the function of preserving the purity of Islam, which is central to our nation’s identity and values of which the monarch is the guardian.

In light of these egregious violations, there is a compelling justification for the KMM to take decisive action. This includes restricting the dissemination of such news in the virtual space it controls and pursuing legal recourse through the courts – event in “absentia”, to hold the publishers accountable. It is imperative to protect the good name of the government and the royal institution from unwarranted attacks and defamation.

Merely resorting to rhetoric of denial is insufficient. In fact, it risks plunging society into a state of ignorance and perpetuating a culture of slander and misinformation. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including the government, media organizations, and civil society, to collectively uphold truth and integrity in media reporting and safeguard the foundations of our democracy.

The time has come for swift and decisive action to address the scourge of false and derogatory reporting. By holding irresponsible publishers accountable and upholding the principles of truth and integrity, we can foster a society built on trust, respect, and justice. Let us unite in our commitment to combatting misinformation and preserving the values that define us as a nation.

Mohd Roslan Mohd Saludin
Research Fellow
The Future Research