Media should hold steadfast to fifth Rukun Negara principle

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 -- Media practitioners can adopt the fifth Rukun Negara principle- ‘Good Behavior and Morality’ as the 'golden rule' in carrying out their duties, said Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) chief executive officer Datuk Dr Chamil Wariya.

In the fight against fake news that is rampant on social media, he said the responsibility of the media is now heavier, however aspects of polite language in conveying accurate and authentic information should not be neglected.

“If we look at the fifth Rukun Negara principle, which is ‘Good Behavior and Morality’, for me, that can be a principle for journalists in the country, however they (journalists) must disseminate accurate information and the language used must also be decent and polite.

“Journalists are also prohibited from spreading false news, everything must be factual. The responsibility of the media is now also increasingly challenging, I think, if the Rukun Negara is fully appreciated it can be a good guideline,” he said when contacted by Bernama TV’s ‘Malaysia Petang Ini’ programme that discussed the topic Kebebasan Media, Cara Menjawab Tohmahan dan Berita Tidak Tepat (Media Freedom, How to Answer Slander and Inaccurate News), here, today.

Chamil said the media also played a role in educating the public through information disseminated in an effort to create a knowledgeable society.

The Rukun Negara was declared on Aug 31, 1970, following the May 13 incident in 1969, with the aim of fostering unity among the people of different races, religions, cultures and beliefs.

Rukun Negara's 50th Anniversary Celebration started on July 9 and will run until Sept 16.

-- BERNAMA