UNION Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn delivered a remark at the meeting with the members of the Myanmar Press Council for the development of the media sector held at the In­formation and Public Relations Department in Bahan Township, Yangon Region yesterday.

Also present at the meeting were Myanmar Press Council Chair Dr Tin Tun Oo, vice-chair­persons, the joint secretary, council members and officials.

In his remarks, the Union minister extended best wishes to the council by expressing confi­dence that the council members having strong experiences and maturity, would be able to work effectively to develop the media sector. He continued that it is im­portant to consider the current practical situation and both do­mestic and international political situations to ensure the work is effective while serving the duties.

He added that the influence of the media significantly im­pacts daily life, and actions are being taken against the publish­ing of obscene literature. These books are offensive to modesty and lead the thinking skills and feelings of youths in the wrong direction. Therefore, the prose­cution against these publishing is a preventive measure from poisonous literature for the coun­try and people. Similarly, action is taken against obscene music videos.

The council can perform duty freely in line with the law and needs to oppose the de­structive actions of terrorists and firmly stand with the pub­lic in media means. Moreover, it should express positive news refraining from informal writing styles affecting the government and Tatmadaw based on misin­formation.

News media outlets should not circulate information that supports the terrorists, impos­es fear among the public and deteriorates the state’s stability. They also should know that they might face lawsuits following the existing laws if they fail to follow the directives.

Moreover, the council should work together to ban such prac­tices.

Next, the Director-General of the Information and Public Relations Department clarified the legal action taken against printers and publishers who fail to follow the enacted regulations under the Printing and Publish­ing Enterprises Law.

Chairman of the Myanmar Press Council Dr Tin Tun Oo discussed the development of the media sector and the attendees coordinated the discussion.

The Union minister made proper instructions and conclud­ed the meeting.

In the evening, the Union minister inspected the construc­tion site of Sarso Beikman in Mingala Taungnyunt township.

Project Director Daw Yu Yu Naing of Myanmar Land & De­velopment Ltd first clarified the completed operations.

The Union minister empha­sized the need for the building of Sarso Beikman to be an elegant and modern building and placed the materials systematically af­ter completion.

He then observed the Sarso Beikman construction site. — MNA/KTZH