Nearly 100 Media Mulia employees put on paid leave

KUALA LUMPUR: Nearly 100 employees of Media Mulia Sdn Bhd, the publisher of Utusan Malaysia and Kosmo!, will be placed on paid leave as the company reviews its business model amid changes in the media landscape.

The company said yesterday the rationalisation exercise was part of a strategic review of its operations and direction to ensure its long-term sustainability amid challenges facing the media industry.

Media Mulia director and chief financial officer Abd Wahid Idris said the move reflected the industry's shift towards digital platforms.

"The company remains committed to continuing the publication of print newspapers for readers who are loyal to them."

He said the programme would allow the company to reassess its operational needs, human resource deployment and capacity to focus on digital content, more effective news delivery platforms and long-term business sustainability.

He said the exercise would not compromise the identity and legacy of the two newspapers.

"The uniqueness of the content, editorial identity, news approach and credibility of both brands will continue to be preserved."

Wahid said the current management had revived Utusan Malaysia and Kosmo! after their previous owner ceased operations in 2019.

He said the company remained committed to safeguarding the welfare and rights of its staff in accordance with prevailing laws.