PM: MEDIA SHOULD FIGHT FAKE NEWS
Statements, including his, are taken out of context
JOURNALISTS have the responsibility to fight fake news, which is mushrooming, especially on portals, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said.
He said it was vital for journalists to quickly deal with fake news as it was influencing people, especially youth.
“Most fake news is designed to create confusion and hatred among the people. Sometimes, our statements are taken out of context, including mine, to confuse the public,” he said at the high-tea gathering organised by the Malaysian Women Journalists Association.
Present was Najib’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.
He cited an example of a recent article about his visit to Washington DC to meet United States President Donald Trump, which had been taken out of context.
Although certain portals claimed that his remark of wanting to “help the US to strengthen its economy” was a negative note, Najib said there was a reason why he said so.
“The idea is to show that Malaysia is not on its knees, begging. We want to show that we are there as a successful country and that we can be a significant global player.
“On the Boeing purchase, the opposition has been making noise about it, but Malaysia Airlines Bhd only wanted to buy eight Dreamliner (aircraft).
“I heard that Turkish Airlines is buying 40 Dreamliners. Dreamliner is one of the most sophisticated aircraft, but the opposition wants to whack me for that.”
On fake news, Najib called on the media to reveal the truth, especially on policies and decisions by the government in helping the people.
“I want everyone to know the meaning behind government decisions.
“For decades, journalists have helped the country grow and move forward. I thank you for the effort and I know for sure that women journalists in Malaysia are very strong.”