Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching has urged all parties, particularly government employees, to eschew impolite or unsuitable language when making statements to the public. Her remarks came after she opened an industry dialogue on responsible journalism in Putrajaya on June 15.
Teo emphasised that civil servants should be particularly mindful of steering clear of subjects relating to race, religion and royalty—collectively known as 3R issues. She stressed that this guidance should apply not just during election periods but consistently throughout their tenures.
Her comments were prompted by scrutiny surrounding Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali, the newly appointed director-general of the Department of Community Communications (J-KOM), who has faced allegations of using inappropriate language since taking office on June 9. Mohd Hisyamuddin succeeded Datuk Ismail Yusop in the position.
Teo acknowledged that she has not yet had the opportunity to meet with Mohd Hisyamuddin in person to discuss these recommendations. She stressed the importance of maintaining professional standards in public communication, regardless of circumstances or timing.
