Preserving Dignity in Crisis-Related Content: Content Forum Urges Responsible Conduct Following Gerik Tragedy

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 JUNE 2025 – The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the recent bus crash in Gerik, which tragically claimed 15 lives.

We echo the call by the Minister of Communications, YB Fahmi Fadzil, for content creators, media professionals, and the public to exercise empathy, restraint, and responsibility in the creation and sharing of content related to this tragedy.

As we mourn as a nation, we must remember that behind every headline and viral post are grieving families. Content that sensationalises, invades privacy, or disrespects the dignity of those affected not only causes harm, it erodes our collective humanity.

What Responsible Coverage Looks Like

The Content Code, Malaysia’s framework for self-regulation of content on electronic networks, provides clear principles for ethical reporting and content sharing in times of crisis. We urge all parties to uphold the following:

• Avoid Graphic and Disturbing Imagery: Do not publish or circulate photos or videos that show the deceased, injured, or the immediate aftermath in a way that is exploitative.
• Respect Privacy: Do not reveal personal details of victims without consent from next-of-kin. Avoid ambushing or intruding upon mourning families for statements or content.
• Verify Before You Share: Refrain from spreading unverified or speculative information about the cause of the crash or the individuals involved.
• Use Appropriate Language: Avoid sensational or emotionally charged headlines that dramatise the tragedy.
• Offer Context and Compassion: Highlight efforts to assist survivors, emergency response efforts, and ways the public can support victims’ families.

Ensuring Responsible Content Practices in Crisis-Related Content

We urge all content creators, media organisations, and individuals to exercise professionalism, sensitivity, and sound judgment when producing or sharing content related to tragedies. In times of profound loss, the manner in which information is presented can have a lasting impact on victims, their families, and the public at large.

All platforms, be it online, on air, or in print, should reflect our shared Malaysian values by upholding dignity, safeguarding privacy, and showing empathy, especially in times of national tragedy.

The Content Forum remains available to provide advisory support on responsible and ethical content practices. For further information, please visit www.contentforum.my.