Media Rights Groups Urge Clarity on Rumoured PPPA Amendments

PETALING JAYA: Media rights groups have called on the home ministry to provide clarification on rumoured amendments to the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (PPPA).

Concerns Over Proposed Changes

The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM), the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) expressed concern that the proposed changes would affect media freedom and newsroom operations.

“According to information received, the amendments include reinstating the mandatory three-year media licence renewal requirement for media companies and extending the definition of ‘publication’ to digital and electronic content”, they said in a joint statement today.

Risks to Online Platforms and User-Generated Content

“This raises concerns about how online platforms and user-generated content will be monitored and regulated.

Harsher Penalties and Fines

The amendments reportedly also include harsher criminal penalties and increased fines.

Call for Consultation and Transparency

The groups called on the government to ensure that new policies for the journalism industry would not undermine media freedom, especially in relation to the soon-to-be-tabled Malaysian Media Council Bill.

They also urged the home ministry to consult with industry stakeholders before making any decision.

Government’s Previous Response

In March, home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail dismissed claims of impending amendments to the PPPA, saying that discussions had only focused on introducing fines for violations of media rules.

Calls for Repeal of the PPPA

Civil rights groups and advocates for free speech have long called for the repeal of the PPPA, arguing that it is used by the government to stifle freedom of speech and information.

Conclusion

The media rights groups’ call for clarification and transparency is crucial in ensuring that any changes to the PPPA do not undermine media freedom and the ability of journalists to function without hindrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

* What are the proposed amendments to the PPPA?
+ The proposed amendments include reinstating the mandatory three-year media licence renewal requirement for media companies and extending the definition of ‘publication’ to digital and electronic content.
* Why are media rights groups concerned about these changes?
+ The groups are concerned that these changes will affect media freedom and newsroom operations, and will result in stricter monitoring and regulation of online platforms and user-generated content.
* What is the government’s stance on the proposed amendments?
+ The government has dismissed claims of impending amendments to the PPPA, saying that discussions have only focused on introducing fines for violations of media rules.
* What do civil rights groups and advocates for free speech think about the PPPA?
+ They believe that the PPPA is used by the government to stifle freedom of speech and information, and are calling for its repeal.