Fahmi said the government’s decision to impose restrictions stemmed from “abuse by certain quarters” and the need to scrutinise newer media outlets that have sprouted up lately.

“That is why we are keeping a closer watch. They form new websites, apply for media accreditation cards and try to attend (government) events and programmes,” he told reporters after visiting the Penang House of Music (PHoM) at Komtar today.

Fahmi said further details regarding the restrictions will be outlined in guidelines on the media card and through a statement later today.

On Tuesday, Malaysiakini reported that new media cards for journalists from online platforms would have shorter validity periods.

A later report quoted the information department as saying that it was “reviewing the standard operating procedures for issuing media cards”.

Typically, these media cards for local journalists are valid for two years, while those working for foreign media organisations receive a one-year pass.

Fahmi yesterday said the media cards were not a licence needed for journalists to carry out their jobs.

During his visit to PHoM, Fahmi was given a tour by its founder, Paul Augustin, who previously said the place, which is popular with tourists, was on the brink of closure due to financial challenges.

He said further discussions were ongoing with MyCreative Ventures, a GLC, to explore options to sustain PHoM’s operations for the long term.