Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching has urged all civil servants to exercise caution when making public statements, particularly by avoiding language that could be deemed disrespectful or inappropriate. Speaking in Putrajaya on June 15, she stressed the importance of steering clear of topics that might touch on sensitivities related to race, religion and royalty (3R).

Teo's remarks came during the launch of an industry dialogue course on journalism standards and responsibility. She emphasized that this guidance should apply consistently, not just during election periods but year-round across all public communications.

The Deputy Minister's comments followed recent criticism aimed at Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali, the newly appointed director-general of the Department of Community Communications (J-KOM). Various observers had questioned certain statements he had made since taking office on June 9, following his appointment to replace Datuk Ismail Yusop.

Teo indicated she had not yet arranged a personal meeting with Mohd Hisyamuddin to discuss the matter directly, leaving the door open for a future conversation on the subject.