Human rights and media bodies unite to promote gender-sensitive reporting, safer journalism, and uphold ethical standards in the media industry.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the Malaysian Media Council (MMM) have formalised a joint commitment to advance gender equality, uphold human dignity, and strengthen ethical media practices.
In a statement marking International Women’s Day 2026, both institutions announced plans to enhance dialogue and cooperation between the fields of human rights and media governance.
Potential areas for collaboration include capacity-building initiatives, the development of specialised training modules, and the formation of a working group to examine media ethics through a gender lens.
The partnership also aims to explore measures that promote gender- and child-sensitive media writing standards while encouraging responsible reporting on issues affecting women, children, and vulnerable communities.
Further objectives include supporting a safer working environment for journalists, particularly women, by addressing harassment and intimidation faced during their duties.
They also plan to strengthen institutional dialogue concerning complaints, accountability, and governance within the media landscape.
SUHAKAM and MMM intend to raise public awareness about the media’s critical role in advancing equality and preventing harm through its reporting.
This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
SUHAKAM commissioner Melissa Akhir stated that advancing women’s rights and strengthening ethical journalism is a shared responsibility requiring sustained commitment.
“International Women’s Day reminds us of the importance of creating a media environment that promotes equality, justice and respect,” she said.
MMM Board member Gayathry Venkiteswaran emphasised that ethical, fair, and inclusive reporting is essential for building public trust and strengthening democratic discourse.
“Gender-sensitive reporting helps the public understand the realities and contributions of all members of society, leading to more accurate journalism and more informed public debate,” she said.
The Sun Malaysia
