Deputy minister raps social media news portal for ‘poor journalism’

KUCHING (Feb 1): The news portal owned by Awesome TV 7.57 has come under fire for inaccurate, careless and unethical reporting as well as failing to adhere to journalistic norms in its coverage.

Deputy Minister (Corporate Affairs, Information and Sarawak Public Communications Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said the portal had long been publishing provocative reports without citing clear sources, relying instead on general references by ‘political experts’ or ‘observers’.

“I wish to emphasise, using 7.57 as an example, that this is a social media news portal that acts irresponsibly.

“Journalist norms and ethics are completely ignored…this is an example of poor journalism that we should not emulate,” he said, referring to the portal’s increasingly provocative news coverage of Sarawak in recent times.

Abdullah Saidol said an ethical journalist should clearly state the sources of information and analysis used in line with the principles repeatedly highlighted during National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) celebrations.

“What is disheartening is why 7.57 is still allowed to broadcast and continue publishing provocative news about Sarawak, even after reports have been lodged with the relevant authorities,” he said.

He expressed suspicion that the portal might be used by certain parties to attack the interests of Sabah and Sarawak, particularly regarding federal-state relations.

“This raises political suspicion that this portal is being used by certain individuals to challenge the rights of Sabah and Sarawak. Their tone, labelling us as greedy and arrogant, is actually a reflection of themselves, whereas our political policy has always prioritised tolerance and dialogue,” he said.

He urged the Ministry of Communications to take firm action against any media outlet that violates journalistic ethics.

“The Minister always speaks about integrity and transparency. I feel he should demonstrate actions in line with his words, so that talk matches action,” he said.