Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs, cautioned against the dissemination of news and information that could harm an individual's honour, dignity, or reputation, stressing that such practices are strictly prohibited in Islam.
Speaking at the 8th anniversary awards ceremony of PSM News, Minister Shaheem highlighted the moral imperative of safeguarding human dignity, warning of the lasting damage caused by unverified reports and defamatory statements. He stressed that Islam forbids the spread of baseless accusations, noting their potential to irreparably tarnish personal integrity.
His remarks reinforced the broader principles of Islamic Shariah, which enshrines five foundational objectives, including the protection of human honour and dignity—a distinction granted to humanity by Almighty Allah. Islam, he reiterated, safeguards personal integrity and prohibits the dissemination of unverified claims that may undermine it.
Underscoring the necessity of responsible reporting, Minister Shaheem invoked a verse from the Holy Quran, saying, "If an unreliable or sinful person brings you news, verify it before accepting or acting upon it."
Turning to media ethics, he commended PSM News for its commitment to timely and carefully curated reporting. He praised the network's ability to operate effectively with a small but dedicated team, noting that its approach to journalism resonates with contemporary audiences.