The Malaysian Media Council has expressed “serious concern” over the RM100,000 fine imposed by the MCMC on Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad and Sinar Karangkraf Sdn Bhd, warning that such heavy penalties risk fostering fear and self-censorship in newsrooms.

In a statement today, the council said while it recognised the importance of accuracy and respect for national symbols, the penalties were excessive and disproportionate to the alleged offences.