Journalists with integrity not merely news writers

New Straits Times

2 days ago

BUTTERWORTH: Journalists with integrity do not merely write news, but deliver accurate information and act as watchdogs in a democratic country and shape public opinion.
Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow said in a fast-paced world overflowing with information that can often times be confusing, journalists play a vital role in sifting, researching and ensuring that accurate and correct information is delivered to the public.
"Journalists have the duty to be the border between fact and slander, truth and manipulation," he said during his speech at the Penang state-level National Journalists Day (Hawana) 2025 celebrations here last night.
As such, he urged media practitioners to continue to hold to journalism ethics and ensure that the information spread was not just accurate, but capable of fostering understanding and unity.
He also expressed the Penang government's appreciation towards the media for their role as a strategic partner in the state's development.
"I believe with the support and cooperation of the media, government policies and initiatives can be understood and assessed fairly by the public," he said.
Meanwhile, Media Mutiara Club president Mohd Iskandar Othman said Hawana was now an important platform to honour the role of the media in championing freedom and safety of journalists and to spur discussions on ethics, digital challenges and the future of the media industry.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Communications Ministry's initiative to launch Tabung Kasih @Hawana in April 2023, which is implemented by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama).
"Since its launch, the fund has provided aid to 315 media practitioners throughout the country, including those who are active and retired, focusing on those with health problems, facing difficulties in life or affected by disasters.
"The initiative not only provide financial aid but also shows care and concern to journalists who have greatly contributed to society," he said.
The highlight of Hawana 2025 will take place on June 14 at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, and will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with an estimated 1,000 media practitioners, both local and foreign, in attendance.
Hawana, organised by the Communications Ministry and with Bernama as its implementing agency, offers various events, including a Pesta Pantun on May 31 and a prelaunch with strategic partners at Wisma Bernama on June 3, as well as a media jointly organised with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) on June 14.