Fahmi Urges J-Kom Chief to Avoid Giving Room for Information Manipulation
KOTA BHARU: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has advised the newly appointed Director-General of the Community Communications Department (J-Kom), Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali, to exercise caution in communicating with the public to avoid creating opportunities for information to be manipulated.
Fahmi said the reminder came following Mohd Hisyamuddin’s outspoken presence on social media since assuming the role last week.
According to him, while the director-general’s proactive approach and willingness to address issues quickly are positive developments, it is equally important to ensure that the information conveyed cannot be misinterpreted or exploited by others.
“This is only his first week in office and we will continue to evaluate his performance.
“He has received advice, including from me, to ensure that no space is created for parties who are hostile to the government or intentionally looking for issues to manipulate the information being shared,” he said.
He was speaking at a press conference after the presentation ceremony for the National Information Dissemination Centre (Nadi) Advisory Panel chairpersons for Kelantan here today.
Fahmi said J-Kom’s primary responsibility is to ensure that the public receives accurate information and clearly understands government policies and initiatives.
As such, he stressed that communication must be carried out carefully and in a manner that is easily understood to prevent confusion or unnecessary controversy.
“In my view, the energy and dynamism shown by him are very positive.
“However, J-Kom must always be careful to ensure that people fully understand what the government is trying to convey,” he said.
Fahmi noted that responding quickly to current issues is increasingly important in the age of social media, where information spreads rapidly.
Nevertheless, he said such speed must be balanced with responsible communication and thoughtful messaging.
He described Mohd Hisyamuddin’s ability to react swiftly to issues as refreshing and potentially beneficial in strengthening J-Kom’s role as a government communication agency.
Earlier, Mohd Hisyamuddin drew attention on social media after several of his posts and comments were seen as more outspoken and direct than the approach traditionally associated with senior civil servants.
The reactions sparked debate among netizens, with some arguing that he should exercise greater caution now that he occupies a high-ranking government position.
