InMedia, an independent media outlet in Hong Kong, has recently been fined HK$10,000 for not keeping registers of its members and directors at its Wan Chai office. This violation of the Companies Ordinance led to charges being brought against the outlet after a report was received by the Companies Registry.
Damon Wong, the editor-in-chief and director of InMedia, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to both offences. He explained that while the company did have the necessary registers, they had forgotten to keep the register of members and directors separately. Wong emphasized that InMedia is a small-scale non-profit media outlet that serves the public interest, and that the directors had not received bonuses for many years due to the company’s financial losses.
The magistrate, Chu Chung Keung, imposed a fine of HK$10,000 on InMedia for the violations. Under the Companies Ordinance, it is mandatory for companies in Hong Kong to maintain registers of their significant controllers, members, and directors at their registered office or a designated location. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in fines of up to HK$25,000, with additional daily fines if the offence persists.
Established in 2014, InMedia is one of the oldest independent online outlets in Hong Kong, filling a crucial role in the media landscape. The city has seen a decline in press freedom rankings since the implementation of security laws, with numerous media outlets being shut down, journalists arrested, and journalists losing their jobs or emigrating.
In a similar incident, independent publisher Bbluesky was fined HK$16,000 for failing to maintain registers at its office in Kwun Tong. The publisher, known for titles related to Hong Kong politics, was instructed to remove five titles from its shelves during the Hong Kong Book Fair. This development highlights the challenges faced by independent media outlets in Hong Kong.
It is crucial to safeguard press freedom and support independent media outlets to ensure diverse voices and perspectives in the media landscape. Journalists like Irene Chan play a vital role in covering political and social changes, shedding light on important issues and holding those in power accountable. Their work is essential for a democratic society to thrive and for citizens to stay informed about the world around them.
