Abstract :
The role of the Malaysian media in shaping public opinions and perceptions about political, economic and social issues has long been the subject of study, speculation, accusations and debate. This is an area in media studies that may be problematic because it is an area where we are caught in between neat Western theories of freedom and democratization and the realities and demands of the local geopolitical situation. With such a complex and colourful socio-political background, the journalistic theories of the West are at times at odds with the nation’s media practices. This research attempts to clarify the Malaysian media system and its role in shaping the perceptions and opinions of the people. Alongside that, the advent of New Media and its impact and influence, on said opinions and perceptions will be looked into in depth, with an aim to determine the direction that the Malaysian Mass Media will be charting following this modern phenomenon
Keywords :
media policy , national development , media roles , Malaysian press systems
