MCMC completes Sin Chew and Kwong Wah investigation, probe papers referred to AGC

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The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has completed its investigation into Sin Chew Daily's error of publishing an image featuring the Malaysian flag without its crescent moon.

According a report by Bernama, the MCMC has also ended its probe into Kwong Wah Yit Poh, another Chinese-language publication, which also wrongly published the Malaysian flag without a crescent moon on its Facebook page.

Both of the publications were in hot water over the erroneous images of the Jalur Gemilang, which were published alongside their reportage of China president Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia last week.

Don't miss: Sin Chew Daily suspends two editors over national flag mistake

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil said the investigation papers will be submitted to the deputy public prosecutor for further action. He confirmed in the Bernama report, that the MCMC's probe is just one aspect of a three-area investigation. The MCMC's investigation is under section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The second investigation is under the home ministry via the Printing presses and publications act 1984, and the third is under the police who are investigating the case under various laws such as the penal code and the Emblems and names (prevention of improper use) act.

Meanwhile, Sinar Harian reported that the police have recorded 54 witness statements in relation to Sin Chew Daily's national flag blunder. Inspector-general of police Razarudin Husain was quoted saying that more witnesses will be called up to assist in the investigation if necessary. He also said that early investigations have found that one of the reasons given by the publication over its mistake, was due to a technical error. Razarudin also confirmed with Sinar Harian that the police have handed over the investigation papers for the case over to the Attorney-General's Chambers on Friday (19 April).

Last week, A+M reported that Sin Chew Daily had suspended two of its editors over the erroneous publication of an image of the national flag without the crescent moon on its 15 April print edition. Following its mistake, the publication had issued a public apology, following public backlash over the matter. It also vowed stronger checks post-blunder, adding that its editorial department has also enhanced its review procedures especially in the use of artificial intelligence.

Meanwhile, Kwong Wah Yit Poh was summoned by the MCMC last week, and faces investigations by the home ministry over an incomplete image of the Malaysian flag which was uploaded onto its official Facebook account on 16 April. The Facebook post showed the front page of its 16 April evening edition, which also depicted the Jalur Gemilang without the crescent moon.

Sin Chew publishes a reflection piece

In light of the controversy, Sin Chew Daily published a reflection piece written by its own journalist, Lok Sai Mun, on Saturday (19 April).

In the article, Lok said the issue of the missing crescent moon "stirred up the most intense public storm I've ever faced in my journalism career". Besides saying that the publication has acknowledged its mistake, heard the criticisms against it, and humbly accepted them.

"However, when some accuse us of creating it 'intentionally', or claim that we have acted with ulterior motives— some even stretch further— [saying that] Sin Chew Daily is 'loyal to foreign powers' and has 'turned its back on Malaysia'— I am left not only bewildered but helpless and painful emotionally."

Lok continued to defend the daily in his article, and called the accusations unfounded, as it erases the continuous efforts Sin Chew has made to foster national identity and promote inter-ethnic unity in Malaysia. He also affirmed that as a media organisation, Sin Chew understands the weight of its responsibilities.

"Why would we sabotage ourselves? Why would we compromise our own credibility and hurt the feelings of our people?" he questioned.

He also stated that Sin Chew Daily has been running a weekly page known as "We" every Sunday, featuring stories of other ethnic groups to enhance Chinese readers' understanding of fellow Malaysians.

"We've asked ourselves repeatedly: How did we miss this during multiple rounds of checks? The reality is, errors occur unintentionally and only come to light once exposed. This is an undeniable fact and we must shoulder responsibility," added Lok.

He further adds that although the media outlet has to learn from the scrutiny and criticism, it should not be made a scapegoat for others to vent their anger, or as a tool for political exploitation.

"We know the trust that society places in us should not be taken for granted. It is earned through tireless effort and hard work. Whether or not we make it through this storm, we will neither hide nor retreat. We will face the storm— with a clear conscience," the journalist said.

Another flag blunder at a baby expo

Singapore brand Singapore Lactation Bakes has found itself in controversy after it showed the Malaysia national flag without the crescent moon at a baby products trade show at the Mid Valley exhibition centre in Kuala Lumpur.

The brand was involved in a promotional video that was played on a screen at the TCE Baby Expo. The video reportedly received at least five police reports, said communications minister Fahmi Fadzil. The incident will be investigated under the National emblems (control of display) act 1949, and strict action will be taken if necessary.

According to Fahmi, the Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of Malaysia's national pride and sovereignty and should not be taken lightly. Following the controversy, Singapore Lactation Bakes vacated its booth at the baby expo, and issued a public apology.

Fahmi was also quoted by The Star as saying that those responsible for the gaffe cannot be allowed to simply apologise for the mistake, as they should have known beforehand that such an error would not be tolerated.

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