KUALA LUMPUR: TV Pertiwi's chief executive officer Mohd Firdaus Salleh Hudin, cried foul over the government's recent move to block access to its news website, saying it did not get any notice over the alleged block.
In a statement on its Facebook page, Firdaus called on the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Communications and Digital Ministry to explain why and state what offences the portal had committed.
He described TV Pertiwi as an independent media organisation, subscribing to a code that news outlets are free to publish any content relating to "race, religion and royalty" (3R) as long as it does not touch on anyone's sensitivities.
A few days ago, TV Pertiwi claimed that its TikTok account with about 63,000 followers had been blocked on Aug 15 without any explanation. It vowed to lodge a police report and submit a complaint to the MCMC.
Today, TV Pertiwi stated on its Facebook page that Firdaus had lodged a police report at the Bandar Baru Bangi police station.
Bernama reported that MCMC remained firm in carrying out its duties, under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to prevent the commission or any attempted commission of an offence, especially concerning false or inaccurate information.
MCMC said any action taken against TV Pertiwi was subject to investigation to ensure the integrity and security of information disseminated through the media and content platforms.
"In the assessment process of TV Pertiwi, MCMC strives to carry out its regulatory duties with full responsibility," the commission said in a statement today.
"MCMC is committed to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the public interest," it said.
Established in 2018, TV Pertiwi is an online news platform operated by Kerengga Merah Sdn Bhd (KMSB).