NUJ Urges Media Mulia To Ensure Transparency And Fairness In Operational Restructuring

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 – The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ) has expressed deep concern over the uncertainty facing media workers at Media Mulia Sdn Bhd, the publisher of Utusan Malaysia and Kosmo!, following the company’s recent strategic rationalisation announcement.

In an official statement issued on Thursday, November 5, 2026, NUJ General Secretary Lydia Nathan highlighted that nearly 100 newsroom employees had been placed under a Paid Leave Programme as part of Media Mulia’s strategic business review.

While acknowledging that media organizations face acute financial pressures as audience engagement and advertising revenues migrate to digital platforms, NUJ emphasized that employee welfare, job security, and dignity must remain primary considerations during corporate restructurings.

“Employees affected by this exercise deserve clear, timely and accurate information on the purpose of the restructuring, the criteria used to determine who is affected, the duration and terms of the paid leave programme, and what it means for their employment status, income and future livelihoods,” Lydia stated.

NUJ called on Media Mulia management to engage in direct, meaningful consultations with affected staff and union representatives, urging full compliance with Malaysian employment laws and existing contractual obligations.

“NUJ also urged all stakeholders to prioritise a resolution that protected the livelihoods of journalists and media workers. A sustainable media industry must be built on sustainable employment,” Lydia added, offering the union’s cooperation alongside government agencies to achieve a fair resolution.

The statement follows an announcement on November 2, 2026, by Media Mulia Director and Chief Financial Officer Abd Wahid Idris confirming the restructuring program across the publishing group to ensure long-term operational viability amid shifting industry landscapes.

Media Union Recommendations, Corporate Context, and Livelihood Demands

Key union concerns, employee advocacy demands, and company restructuring details include:

• Union Position: Urgent call for direct consultation, full transparency, and strict adherence to employment law.
• Affected Workforce: Approximately 100 employees placed under Media Mulia’s Paid Leave Programme.
• Primary Demands: Clarification on paid leave terms, evaluation criteria, duration, and long-term income security.
• Corporate Background: Announcement made by Media Mulia CFO Abd Wahid Idris on Nov 2, 2026, citing digital shifts and business sustainability.

–NMT