Election Reporting by Mainstream Media on Cooling-off Day

29 Mr Chen Show Mao asked the Minister for Communications and Information (a) what are the limitations and requirements applicable to reporting on election matters by the mainstream media on Cooling-Off Day; and (b) what are the differences in requirements applicable to the mainstream media and licensed online news sites in respect of reporting on election matters on Cooling-Off Day and what is the rationale for the same.

Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: The law is clear with respect to the reporting of election matters by both mainstream media and licensed online news sites on Cooling-Off Day and Polling Day. Both mainstream media and licensed online news sites can only report election-related news factually.

The mainstream media and licensed online news sites cannot publish any election advertising – that is, material intended to raise the standing of, or secure the electoral success of, any candidate or party – on Cooling-Off Day and Polling Day.