Malaysian content forum urges broadcasters to self-regulate

 The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) is asking broadcasters to practice self-regulation in their production processes. This comes amidst the rising trend of viral content where a single moment can be viewed by thousands.

According to the forum, for those on the receiving end of negative moments being publicised, these moments can cause severe psychological and emotional distress. To this end, the Content Forum believes that self-regulation is the best way for broadcasters and their production teams to protect the emotional welfare of individuals appearing in their programmes.

“Be it pre-recorded or live programmes, broadcasters and production teams should consider how they can best self-regulate to mitigate instances of public shaming.  Everyone involved in the making of a programme or show should adopt a mindset of care towards one another.

“This includes being informed on ways of providing and receiving constructive criticism without resorting to harsh words or actions,” said Mediha Mahmood, executive director of the Content Forum.

Mediha also asks broadcasters to implement procedures which clearly guide programme participants on what they can say and how they should present themselves on live television.

“Honest mistakes can still occur and things that are said or done during a live broadcast cannot be easily edited — here, broadcasters may want to look at ways they can minimise the emotional impact of these instances,” continued Mediha.

Mediha points out that there is no need to introduce new regulations for broadcasters as the existing Content Code touches on measures to curb public shaming. Part 2 of the Content Code requires that content disseminated avoids including material that offends good taste, decency, or is abusive or threatening in nature. This aligns with Section 211 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which prohibits menacing or offensive content that is intended to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any individual.

She added that Internet users should also employ self-regulation when reacting to content seen or heard online. “I think empathy is a big factor when delivering constructive criticism. This is not to say that people should refrain from giving honest feedback; rather, they should weigh the costs and benefits of public criticism, with the intent of helping the other person grow and learn from their mistakes,” she said.

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