The government has pledged to uphold press freedom while ensuring journalists are given the independence and capacity to carry out their work professionally and ethically.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim said stronger cooperation between the government and the press is essential, noting that journalists play a key role in amplifying public voices and shaping informed discourse.
He said the administration continues to recognise the importance of the media in delivering accurate and reliable information to the public, particularly in tackling the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media.
“We will continue to defend press freedom and ensure the media is empowered so that it can report news freely and independently.”
“In the current climate, the role of the media is increasingly vital to ensure the public receives factual, accurate information that is not driven purely by sentiment,” he told reporters at the Hang Tuah Jaya Parliamentary Media Bowling Championship in Melaka on Saturday night.
Adam Adli, who is also Hang Tuah Jaya MP, said media organisations that adhere to professional standards carry a significant responsibility in helping the public understand issues clearly and accurately. He added that journalism is becoming even more important in ensuring information remains authentic and reliable.
He also said he hoped journalists would continue providing balanced coverage ahead of several upcoming state elections, allowing the public to make informed political decisions.
“We want to ensure that all media practitioners are free to provide coverage that spans a variety of perspectives, so that the public can make well-informed political judgements,” he said.
He added that the bowling championship also reflected the close relationship between the government and the media, describing it as a symbol of ongoing cooperation and goodwill.
