MyKom arrives in Sarawak, out to support mainstream media, not against it

Borneo Post

2 days ago

KUCHING (Aug 5): Media Komunikasi Nasional (MyKom) has officially expanded its operations here, positioning itself as an alternative media platform that supports and complements mainstream media, rather than competing with it.
According to the Prime Minister's political secretary Datuk Azman Abidin, MyKom remains a credible and authoritative source within Malaysia's media and public communication landscape.
'I am confident that although it is alternative, MyKom will be recognised, authoritative, and become a key reference in the realm of news and public communication in the country,' he said at the launch here yesterday.
He pointed out that in an era saturated with information and growing demands for timely and accurate communication, the need for impactful messaging at the state and community levels had become more critical than ever.
'The launch of MyKom today is a clear signal that Sarawak is also taking this need seriously. I urge MyKom to move forward with courage and integrity, always anchored by the interests of the people.
'Do not be afraid to be a voice of principle. Do not hesitate to highlight stories from rural communities, stories of everyday people, and those that often go unheard in the mainstream media,' he said.
Apart from that, Azman also stressed that the media's influence should be used to unite the people rather than divide, and to educate rather than to provoke.
'Media content should aim to strengthen social values, rather than merely chasing viewership or popularity.'
Meanwhile, MyKom Sarawak managing director Zulrusdi Mohd Hol said the platform would utilise various social media channels including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and X to disseminate news content.
'As a responsible new media outlet, we uphold Article 10 of the Federal Constitution which guarantees the right to speak, express, assemble, and associate.
'We also operate in compliance with the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Sedition Act,' he said.
Zulrusdi said MyKom's mission could be best summarised through a quote by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof during the closing of the Sarawak Journalists Conference last month: 'Truth must be spoken, dignity defended, and hope never extinguished.'
Among those present at the event yesterday were MyKom Sarawak advisor Dato Sri Hafsah Harun and MyKom Sarawak chairman Nazib Johari.