PUTRAJAYA: Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) was following standard operating procedure (SOP) when it only aired the speech of Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad live last Sunday. Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo said today that RTM’s SOP clearly states that when the prime minister attends an official function, only his speech is to be broadcast live.
“RTM cannot therefore be blamed for not airing the speeches of the minister and the Negeri Sembilan menteri besar live at the said event as the prime minister attended and spoke at the event,” he said.
However, despite the SOP, Gobind said event organisers could talk to RTM about adjustments to the items that are to be telecast live, based on the news value.
“Unfortunately, in this particular case, there was no such request,” said Gobind.
“RTM in following their SOP, therefore, rightfully only aired the prime ministers’ speech live for the event.
“This too, I am informed, with the express agreement of the organiser of the event, which is the Tourism and Culture Ministry.
“Where there is reason to, I would not hesitate to reprimand anyone with a view to improving our services at RTM.
“However, in this case, RTM did nothing wrong.”
Earlier this week, Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s press secretary, Lim Swee Kuan, had asked via Facebook, whether RTM was sabotaging the Federal Government after his boss’ speech at the 2019 Chinese New Year Open House in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, last Sunday, was not broadcast.
Gobind said the Pakatan Harapan government welcomed constructive criticism.
He also clarified that his move to request an explanation from RTM did not violate the principle of the freedom of the press.
“In fact, quite to the contrary, asking for an explanation affords RTM with a most valuable right to be heard where concerns have been raised against them, before any decision is made in the matter,” he added.