Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia chairman Kenny Ong
KUALA LUMPUR: With a strong focus on self-regulation and fostering a safer content ecosystem, the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) has been at the forefront of raising awareness and advocating responsible content practices.
Reflecting on the past year, the Content Forum has been relentless in its pursuit to raise awareness about self-regulation, drive discourse on the boundaries of content and address important issues often overlooked.
Through activities, campaigns, industry engagements and outreach programmes, the organisation has tackled topics such as content relating to persons with disabilities, crimes against children and suicide prevention.
One of its notable achievements in 2022 was the successful registration of the Content Code 2022, a revamped set of guidelines that aims to foster a robust content landscape in Malaysia where freedom of expression and responsibility can seamlessly coexist.
This new Content Code reflects the evolution of today’s content ecosystem and is aligned with global best practices to ensure it upholds the rights, security and welfare of various segments of the community and stakeholders.
The Content Forum is an independent self-regulatory industry organisation registered under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and designated by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to oversee and promote self-regulation of content over the electronic networked medium.
The organisation consists of key players of the content industry, namely advertisers, advertising agencies, broadcasters, content creators, distributors, audio-text hosting services providers, advertising agencies, Internet service providers and civic groups.
It got another shot in the arm when incumbent chairman Kenny Ong, who is also chief executive officer of Astro
Radio, was re-elected recently to lead the Content Forum for another term.
This resounding endorsement of Ong’s leadership demonstrates the organisation’s trust in his vision and ability to guide its initiatives effectively.
Under his guidance, the Content Forum would continue its mission to drive positive change, promote self-regulation and advance the interests of the content industry.
With a dedicated and experienced chairman at the helm, the organisation is poised to further strengthen its impact and contribute to a thriving and responsible content landscape.
Ong said he firmly believes that the organisation’s work is far from complete.
“As we move forward, my commitment remains steadfast in protecting our nation and ensuring that the ecosystem, platform and content we pass on hold significant value for our country.
“As a parent, this guiding principle drives my dedication and I am determined to continue making a positive impact,” he noted.
In 2022, the Content Forum’s Complaints Bureau efficiently handled 734 cases, addressing various content issues.
Internet content accounted for 71% (518 cases) of the total. Its proactive approach and 100% success rate in resolving complaints demonstrate its commitment to promoting responsible content practices.
This includes the issuance of advisory notes to media practitioners in cases of breach, including to non-members of the Content Forum, to ensure responsible suicide reporting.
The positive response and subsequent changes made by these parties reflect the impact of its approach to upholding responsible content practices.
In addition, the Content Forum also ventured into innovative avenues to enhance awareness and foster a deeper comprehension of the Content Code.
Notably, a significant collaboration was forged with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia to host an Exhibition Debate coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day.
This impactful event aims to raise awareness about the gravity and far-reaching implications of cyberbullying and suicide, shedding light on the detrimental effects of cyberbullying on mental health and overall well-being.
The organisation also actively fostered engagement with industry stakeholders and the general public to promote understanding and adherence to the code.
Through joint initiatives with media, government and other organisations, dialogues were conducted with influential entities such as the Health Ministry advertising committees, among others.
By working closely with various stakeholders, the Content Forum ensured a comprehensive and collaborative approach to promoting responsible content practices and maintaining a safer digital environment.
Meanwhile, Ong urged all Content Forum members to collaborate in brainstorming ideas that would fuel industry growth, emphasising the need to protect and nurture the content world in alignment with its vision for the country’s content landscape.
By working together, he said a vibrant and responsible future for the industry could be ensured.
“We must safeguard the content sphere from harm and protect the interests of our nation and the youth of tomorrow.
“Therefore, I urge all the elected council members to wholeheartedly support the executive office in fulfilling their responsibilities,” he said, while extending congratulations to the newly appointed Content Forum’s council members for the period of 2023-2025.
The new council members comprise various categories. For the Advertisers Category, the council members include the Malaysian Advertisers Association, Media Specialists Association and the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia.
In the Content Creators/Distributors Category are Media Prima Digital, Star Media Group and Sun Media Corp.
