The electoral reform group said the media could influence the choices of the 21.1 million eligible voters come Nov 19.

“They have a responsibility to not only communicate accurate information but to provide fair access to all contestants in this election,” it said in a statement.

To ensure equitable coverage for all candidates, Bersih has three proposals for television and radio broadcasters.

Firstly, they should provide airtime for all parties and independent candidates to state their election manifestos, either equally or in accordance with the number of seats they are contesting, with the major parties given more time.

Secondly, Bersih encouraged a debate by all aspiring prime ministerial candidates to show voters that they are able to discuss matters of policy and other important topics.

Lastly, Bersih proposed multi-party dialogues between representatives from different parties and independents to sit together and discuss important issues in a civil manner.

The group also said equitable airtime by state-owned broadcasters would be a form of “indirect public funding” for parties, an integral element of political funding reform.