KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Media Council (MMC) wants media organisations to refrain from publishing details or unverified social media content that could directly or indirectly identify children involved in incidents as suspects, victims or witnesses.
In a statement, it reminded newsrooms that under Clause 9.3 of its Code of Conduct, the interests of children under 18 must be protected and may only be overridden where there is an exceptional public benefit.
"Information that attracts public attention does not necessarily serve the public interest," it said.
MMC acknowledged that incidents involving minors, particularly in schools, were matters of legitimate public concern. However, it said, it must be balanced against the potential harm to the children involved.
