Malaysia govt’s new media ethics code raises questions about press freedom

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s updated code of ethics for journalists has raised concerns that it may curb media freedom, given that it was developed by Malaysia’s Information Department (Japen).

Contentiously, the department, which is under Ministry of Communications, also said the code would serve as its guideline for the management of Malaysia’s media accreditation cards.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who launched the code on Feb 20, said that revisions were needed to take into account the advent of social media. At the same time, the new eight-point code will assist in…