UNIT 8 LEGAL & ETHICAL ISSUES

Media is critical in today's society because the mass media performs a number of essential functions in our lives.

First, they serve an information or surveillance function First, they serve an information or surveillance function. Second, they serve an agenda-setting and interpretation function. Third, they help us create and maintain connections with various groups in society.

Fourth, they help us socialise and educate us Fourth, they help us socialise and educate us. Fifth, they persuade us to buy certain items or accept certain ideas, And sixth, they entertain us.

7 Big Sins By Media DISTORTION 2. WORSHIPPING FALSE IMAGES 3. INVASION OF PRIVACY 4. CHARACTER ASSISINATION 5. EXPLOITATION OF SEX POISONING OF CHILDREN’S MIND 7. ABUSE OF POWER BY THE MEDIA

Hence, the press has a responsibility and duty to encourage harmonious relationships between races in Malaysia. Because of the concern of racial antogonism, the government uses of race relationship as a motive to monitor and control the press in Malaysia

Printing Presses and Publications Act. Print Media Sedition Act. Official Secrets Act. Printing Presses and Publications Act.

1. Sedition Act Prohibits public comment on issues which are defined as sensitive, such as racial or religious matters. Often used to restrict dissenting political speech.

2. Official Secrets Act Also restricts freedom of expression. Opposition leaders have often accused the government of using the OSA to cover up corruption.

3. Printing Presses and Publications Act Requires annual licensing of domestic and foreign publications. Makes publishing “malicious news” a punishable offense. Results in extensive self-censorship by the press.

Conclusions Print media are further heavily controlled by government through selective enforcement of federal laws, fear of criminal lawsuits, and licensing.

Conclusions All electronic media content is tightly controlled by government Censorship and content restrictions.