Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching called on government officials and the public to exercise caution when making public statements, steering clear of discourteous or unsuitable language. Speaking in Putrajaya on June 15, she stressed that sensitivity around matters involving race, religion and royalty (3R) should guide communications at all times, not just during election periods.
Teo's remarks came as she addressed concerns about recent public statements from Department of Community Communications (J-KOM) director-general Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali, who had drawn criticism over his choice of words since taking office. The deputy minister said she has not yet had the opportunity to meet with Mohd Hisyamuddin directly to share this guidance.
Mohd Hisyamuddin assumed the J-KOM leadership role on June 9, succeeding Datuk Ismail Yusop. Teo made her comments after launching an industry dialogue course on responsible journalism and its intersection with digital virality, emphasising the broader importance of measured communication across government institutions.
The deputy minister's advisory underscores ongoing efforts within the administration to uphold professional communication standards among civil servants. Her call for restraint applies universally, particularly when public remarks risk inflaming sensitivities on matters of national concern.
