Forget Harapan vs BN, do more investigative work - Jomo tells media

The news media should focus more on investigative journalism than being caught up in politics, economist and academic Jomo Kwame Sundaram said today.

"This is a proactive strategy for the media's future. Go deep into everything.

"Don't take part in the debate between BN and Pakatan Harapan.

"Report honestly, and let the readers make their own conclusions. For me, that is the strategy to advance the 'New Malaysia' concept if that is where we want to head," he said.

Jomo was speaking at a talk organised by the Malaysian Press Institute on the role of the media in 'New Malaysia.'

Read more: Jomo: ECRL a scam to cover up 1MDB scandal

An example he proffered of investigative journalism coming into play was the ramifications of the investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) clause in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

He pointed out that under the ISDS, Malaysia would, for instance, have to pay compensation were it to stop using pesticides from Monsanto (since acquired by Bayer) – which is currently locked in a multimillion-dollar legal battle in the US for allegedly causing cancer.

Jomo also said that reporters should act as a check and balance to politicians.

In particular, he said the media had a role in exposing politicians' wrongdoings and to educate the public on such matters.

"Only with the media acting as check and balance can we save the future," he stressed.

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