Comms Ministry launches handbook on factual, ethical reporting for journalists

The Communications Ministry has launched a handbook to provide guidelines for accurate and ethical reporting. The handbook, called the Madani Mobile Journalism (Mojo) Reporter’s Handbook, was unveiled by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.

In her speech at the launch of the National Press Club of Malaysia (NPC) Professional Development Series, Teo Nie Ching highlighted the handbook’s focus on enabling media practitioners and citizen journalists to report events quickly and accurately while upholding ethical information delivery.

The Madani Mobile Journalism (Mojo) Reporter’s Handbook covers topics such as the basics of mobile reporting, reporting tools and technology setup, principles of news reporting, and news ethics. It was developed through a collaborative effort involving the ministry’s Tun Abdul Razak Institute of Broadcasting and Information, Universiti Teknologi Mara’s Communication and Media Studies Faculty, Communications Ministry, Information Department, Broadcasting Department, and the Malaysian National News Organisation (Bernama).

Teo emphasized the importance of empowering journalists with the ability to discern between misinformation and facts, acknowledging the increasing complexity of this issue. She also stressed the responsibility of individuals in rejecting harmful and dangerous content.

The launch of the Professional Development Series, which consists of 10 interactive training courses, is part of an annual programme aimed at addressing gaps created by the evolving media landscape. Teo stated that the series aspires to contribute to the strengthening of Malaysia’s journalists, equipping them to navigate current realities and near-future changes.

The NPC Professional Development Series, which will be held in 10 states including Cyberjaya and Putrajaya, Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Penang, Selangor, Sabah, and Sarawak, seeks to provide journalists with the necessary communication skills and practical knowledge for their professional development and career advancement.