Malaysian journalists will be expected to do their part to protect civic tolerance under specific provisions of a new code of conduct drawn up by the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI).

And for the first time, journalists will be subject to rules against stereotyping by race, religion, ethnicity and gender, among other aspects of updated reporting etiquette.

The "building of a peaceful and harmonious nation" is given prominent mention in the preamble to the code, which defines the responsibilities and ethics of journalists in the print and broadcast media.

In this respect, the code cautions journalists against publishing news and views that affect communal rights and extremism, and which are contrary to the norms of a multi-racial society.

It also says information on communal or religious disputes or clashes should only be published after the facts have been thoroughly verified. Even then, "due caution and restraint" should be exercised to ensure that preservation of communal and religious harmony.