KUALA LUMPUR – Media advocacy group Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) has emphasised that cooperation with authorities in investigations should not necessitate the disclosure of a confidential source’s identity.
Geramm highlighted that protecting the privacy and confidentiality of sources is a fundamental principle in the Malaysian Journalist Code of Ethics, which is published by the Information Department on behalf of the government.
“The same need also contributes towards the ability of journalists and media organisations to carry out their role as the ‘fourth estate’ or represent the voices of all levels of society.
“Without guarantees of protection, journalists will lose trust from sources with information that needs to be disclosed,” it said in a statement today.
This statement was made following a police investigation into a news article reporting a possible reshuffling of senior police officials.
The news site, citing sources, named Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Bukit Aman criminal investigation department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain among the senior officers slated to be transferred to other agencies under the Home Ministry.
Geramm also said that any news should not be judged as “untrue” or “invalid” just because it cites a source whose identity has been kept secret.
“The assessment of the authenticity of the source and the information disclosed, in addition to the need to keep identity confidential, should be determined by the reporter and the editor, without the involvement of outside parties,” it added.
It also pointed out that the right of journalists in Malaysia to protect source confidentiality has also been recognised as a court precedent since 2013 in a defamation case decision.
“If there is a dispute after the publication of an article or news, it should be resolved through the independent Malaysian Media Council, which is in the final stages of establishment through a bill that is expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat in October,” it said.
Therefore, Geramm and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia firmly oppose any effort that may threaten the right of journalists to protect the confidentiality of anonymous sources, it said.
On Tuesday, police confirmed investigating an online news portal over a report claiming the impending transfers of several high-ranking officers out of the force to agencies under the Home Ministry.
The probe follows one report lodged over the matter, with investigations conducted under Section 505 of the Penal Code on public mischief and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil also advised media personnel who are facing police investigations – which could potentially include pressure to reveal unnamed sources – to fully cooperate with authorities.
He said that while his ministry respects the media’s right to protect the identity of its sources or whistleblowers, it is important to comply with existing laws. – August 8, 2024