Director (Media Practice and Reform)

The Director of Media Practice and Reform is responsible for leading the Council's work on media literacy, law reform and policy development, and complaints handling.

Reporting to the Secretary to the Council, the Director ensures the Council's role as Malaysia's independent self-regulatory body is upheld through robust standards, fair adjudication of complaints, and proactive engagement with policymakers, regulators, and the public.

Key Responsibilities

1.1 Policy & Standards Development

Develop, review, and update the Council's Code of Ethics and Professional Standards for the media.

Conduct research and comparative analysis of international media regulatory models.

Advise the Council on policy issues affecting press freedom, media accountability, and public interest.

Lead stakeholder consultations with media organisations, journalists, civil society, and government.

1.2 Complaints & Adjudication

Oversee the Council's complaints handling process, ensuring independence, fairness, and timeliness, with the support of the Media Complaints Officer

Support the Complaints & Standards Committee in adjudicating cases and issuing decisions.

Maintain transparent complaints records and publish regular reports on outcomes and trends.

Develop public education initiatives on how to lodge complaints and the Council's adjudication process.

1.3 Regulatory & Stakeholder Engagement

Liaise with government agencies, Parliament, and regulators on policy and legislative matters affecting the media.

Build relationships with international media councils and press freedom bodies.

Provide policy briefs, submissions, and recommendations to the Board.

1.4 Capacity Building & Research

Lead training, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives on ethics and standards for media practitioners.

Commission and manage research on emerging media issues (e.g., digital platforms, misinformation, AI in media).

Publish policy papers to strengthen the Council's thought leadership.

Qualifications & Competencies

Essential

Bachelor's degree in law, policy studies, media, or related fields. Equivalent professional experience will be considered.

At least five (5) years of relevant professional experience, including demonstrated experience in media regulation, journalism ethics, government engagement, and complaints resolution and adjudication.

Demonstrated ability to lead policy development and manage complex complaints processes.

Strong communication skills in English and Malay, with proven ability to engage across diverse stakeholders.

Important

Legal training or experience in regulatory compliance, dispute resolution, or mediation.

Familiarity with press freedom challenges in Malaysia and globally.

Experience in international policy engagement or comparative media systems.

Knowledge of digital and online content regulation.

Personal Attributes

High integrity, impartiality, and commitment to fairness.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Able to balance policy development with practical implementation.

Deep appreciation for freedom of expression, media ethics, and public accountability.

Contract Type: One to three years, renewable subject to performance review and Board approval

Working Conditions: Primarily office-based in Petaling Jaya or Kuala Lumpur, with regular travel within Malaysia and occasional international representation. The role requires attendance at evening or weekend meetings in line with Council or Committee schedules.

Working Days: Monday - Friday, hybrid working is an option depending on work requirements and work policies set by the Board.

Ready for Responsibility - All candidates will need to declare that they are physically and mentally capable to fulfil their responsibilities. Any external obligations, travel challenges, physical disabilities or mental handicaps that may prevent or disrupt the fulfilment or their responsibilities will need to be declared during the interview. Those with specific challenges may seek reduced time or attendance obligations, in line with reduced responsibilities.

Remuneration

Council Internal Grade 4 with pay ranging from RM 7,000 to RM 10,600 basic plus statutory contributions, and RM 500 in allowances covering digital tech, transport and medical insurance.