Protect journalists’ right to confidential sources

Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) firmly oppose any effort that may threaten the right of journalists to protect the confidentiality of anonymous sources.

Any news should not be judged as “untrue” or “invalid” just because it cites a source whose identity has been kept secret.

Any form of “cooperation” with any investigation conducted by the authorities should also not involve a demand to reveal the identity of a confidential source.

On the other hand, the need to respect the privacy and confidentiality of sources is outlined as one of the eight values ​​of the Malaysian journalist code of ethics published by the Information Department on behalf of the government.

The same need also contributes towards the ability of journalists and media organisations to carry out their role as the “fourth estate” or to represent the voices of all levels of society.

Without guarantees of protection, journalists will lose trust from sources with information that needs to be disclosed.

The assessment of the authenticity of the source and the information disclosed, in addition to the need to keep identity confidential, should be determined by the reporter and the editor, without the involvement of outside parties.

It should be noted that the right of journalists in Malaysia to protect the confidentiality of sources has also been recognised as a court precedent since 2013 in a defamation case decision.

If there is a dispute after the publication of an article or news, it should be resolved through the independent Malaysian media council, which is in the final stages of establishment through a bill expected to be tabled in the House of Representatives in October. – Geramm/NUJM

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

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