Media must report the truth - Undang of Jelebu

KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- The Undang of Jelebu Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad said media practitioners in the country must stress on reporting correct news, avoid bringing people into conflict and safeguard sensitivities.

Maarof said that reports which were incorrect, including half-truths or out of context which incited racial and religious unrest were crimes under the laws of the country.

‘’It is mandatory that this awareness be appreciated in the journalism industry other than upholding the reporting ethics when performing their respective duties,’’ he said in his speech during a working visit to Media Prima here today.

Maarof reminded media practitioners to firmly hold on to religion, national laws and the ethics of journalism in carrying out their duties in line with the role of the media to deliver information, educate, cajole and entertain.

‘’Media reports must be true and accurate to be used as credible references. If the report is not accurate, false, half true, biased, out of the context of reporting and confusing, it will become a futile discourse without substance to be used as arguments,’’ he said.

Maarof also stressed that the media practitioners must have solid knowledge of the law when airing reports to smoothen every task.

‘’Especially more so when a reporting involve the kings and chieftains of Negeri Sembilan. Journalists, photographers, editors and chief editors must be savy in the relevant laws before publishing any news,’ he said.

Expressing appreciation to media practitioners who always channelled the latest, accurate and true reports to the Malaysian people, the Undang of Jelebu said the media was a very influential source towards creating a viable nation and turning out citizens with information.

-- BERNAMA