The Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil clarified that the shorter validity period for media cards issued to journalists from certain outlets has not been implemented yet. He mentioned on Wednesday that those with cards valid for six months or less can apply to the Information Department for a review. This response came after complaints arose about the reported six-month validity period for journalists from online outlets, leading the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) to seek an explanation.
Prior to this, all media cards had a standard validity period of two years. The Information Department later revealed that they were reviewing the standard operating procedure for issuing these cards. Fahmi emphasized that a media card is not akin to a professional medical or legal license. Its primary purpose is to provide access to official government events, as he informed reporters.
Fahmi went on to explain that not every journalistic assignment necessitates a media card, but there are specific events such as National Day celebrations, the Installation of the King, or parliamentary proceedings where it is required. These factors are taken into account when considering the issuance of media cards. The minister also mentioned his encounter with a journalist whose organization is no longer operational as a reason for the review.
Various stakeholders, including the Foreign Correspondents’ Club, have shared their perspectives on the revised validity period. In response, Fahmi instructed the department to reassess certain aspects and promised a follow-up announcement. He assured that the government’s intent is not to curb freedom of speech, but rather to adapt to the challenges presented by the online media landscape.
Before addressing the media card issue, Fahmi launched the Celcomdigi Health Solutions, a collaborative effort with the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). This initiative is part of the digitalization grant for small and medium enterprises announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibahim during the Budget 2024 presentation on Oct 23.
