Journalism laureate deplores 'dangerous' fine against newspapers

National journalism laureate Johan Jaafar has condemned the RM100,000 fine imposed on the publishers of Sin Chew Daily and Sinar Harian.

In a statement last night, he called the MCMC’s actions “unprecedented and dangerous” and can be seen as a bid to undermine the principles of free press and free speech in Malaysia.

“Sadly, it also gives an impression that this government is the least tolerant towards criticism and dissenting views. That is contrary to the position espoused by the prime minister himself.

“Mistakes are made and genuine mistakes are unavoidable in running a media organisation.

“Digital technology and the application of AI can be a double-edged sword. We are all learning to grasp the advantages and the perils of such advancement.

“MCMC should understand the issue more than any other state apparatus,” he said.

Earlier today, the MCMC announced that it has imposed RM100,000 fines against Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad and Sinar Karangkraf Sdn Bhd, following authorisation from the Attorney-General’s Chambers.

Both publishers were investigated under Section 233 (1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and charged under Section 243 of the same law.

For Sin Chew, this was allegedly for publishing an illustration featuring a Jalur Gemilang that was incomplete.

For Karangkraft, it’s daily Sinar Harian reportedly published an infographic that erroneously stated that Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail was a PKR member.

The Malaysian Media Council has also expressed concern, stating that the penalties imposed were “excessive”.

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