KUALA LUMPUR: Fahmi Fadzil has stated that media organizations have the right to keep their sources confidential, but they also have a responsibility to verify the information they receive. The Communications Minister explained that he, as a government spokesman, could not answer questions from the media based on information obtained from unknown sources.
He also expressed that he does not support the idea of forcing the media to reveal their sources in Parliament, as the media’s confidentiality should be respected. This statement was made by Fahmi at the Youth Empowerment Fair at the KL Convention Centre on Sunday (Feb 4).
Fahmi emphasized his stance on only commenting on officially verified and announced issues. He referred to a report by Channel News Asia and urged for patience in waiting for the proper process to unfold.
It was reported by CNA last Wednesday that the Pardons Board had granted former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak a 50% reduction in jail sentence and a reduction in fine. Fahmi urged the media to be cautious and to understand the importance of verifying information, citing instances where incorrect reports had to be retracted.
Fahmi also denied being the source of the story after the Cabinet meeting on the same day. He stressed the significance of waiting for an official statement from the Pardons Board and asserted that the due process should be followed.
