What are the challenges faced by media in reporting on MCO implementation?

Question

Accepted Answer

Media Face Significant Challenges in Reporting on MCO Implementation

Media personnel have encountered numerous obstacles in their efforts to report on the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO) and related government responses. These challenges range from restricted access to events and information to a lack of prioritization of their welfare, despite their role as front-liners keeping the public informed. The perception that the media themselves are a source of risk, rather than essential conduits of information, has also contributed to these difficulties.
Restricted Access to Government Events and Information

A primary challenge for media outlets has been the severe limitation of access to government events and briefings. For instance, during the Melaka assembly sitting, only designated "official media," such as Bernama and RTM, were permitted to cover the proceedings, while other media organisations were barred. This restriction is set to continue for the upcoming Dewan Rakyat sitting, where only "official media" who have undergone Covid-19 testing will be allowed. Furthermore, most media personnel are excluded from Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's daily briefings, which are crucial for public scrutiny of MCO implementation and the equitable application of rules.
Lack of Prioritization of Media Welfare and Safety

Despite media professionals being on the ground daily and risking infection to keep the public informed, some government bodies have demonstrated a lack of concern for their welfare. In the early weeks of the pandemic, media outlets struggled to procure basic protective equipment like masks and hand sanitizers for their staff, often relying on donations. Even when covering significant events like the first Friday prayers at the National Mosque since the lockdown, reporters and photographers were confined to small, designated areas, hindering their ability to maintain social distancing and capture comprehensive coverage.
Censorship and Prohibition of Documenting Certain Events

In addition to restricted access, media have faced outright prohibitions on documenting specific events deemed sensitive by authorities. Notably, media personnel were expressly forbidden from documenting raids conducted against undocumented migrants. When images of these raids did emerge, they revealed distressing scenes of children being taken to detention centres and individuals in distress, underscoring the importance of independent media documentation that was deliberately curtailed.
Misperception of Media as a Source of Risk

There appears to be a misperception among some segments of the public and possibly within certain government circles that the media themselves pose a risk of spreading Covid-19. This was evident in the sarcastic suggestion of a "reporter cluster" following the coverage of the Friday prayers. This viewpoint overlooks the critical role media play as front-liners, akin to other essential service providers, who adhere to safety protocols, including mask-wearing and hygiene practices, to perform their duties of informing the public.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What are the challenges faced by media in reporting on MCO implementation?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

2

0

0

Share with friends