13-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
MPI secures over RM1.2mil for 2024 Journalism Awards and gala
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) has secured over RM1.2 million in sponsorship from various organisations in support of the MPI–Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2024 (HKM 2024) and the 2025 Malam Wartawan Malaysia (MWM 2025) celebration.
Of the total RM1,249,500 raised, RM450,000 was contributed by Petronas specifically for the HKM 2024 award winners, making the company the event's main sponsor.
Meanwhile, for the organisation of MWM 2025, MPI is working in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
A total of RM799,500 was received from 51 sponsors, comprising corporate bodies, ministries, government agencies, and media organisations.
The funds will be fully utilised to ensure that MWM 2025 — to be held alongside the awards ceremony on June 20 at The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur — is delivered to the highest standards.
Speaking at an appreciation ceremony held today, MPI president Datuk Yoo Soo Heong also unveiled MPI's first-ever coffee table book — a commemorative publication celebrating the legacy and generosity of key sponsors.
"More than a keepsake, this publication stands as a tribute to those who champion responsible journalism, transparency, and the pursuit of truth," he said.
Yoo added that the initiative also aimed at supporting retrenched journalists, many of whom contributed their expertise to the book.
"Many talented professionals — once the backbone of respected newsrooms — have lent their insights to this project. Their voices will now be immortalised, continuing to shape narratives and inform public discourse," he said.
During the event, sponsors symbolically presented mock cheques to MPI in recognition of their support.
This year's HKM 2024 received 548 submissions from media professionals across 21 award categories — an increase of 60 entries compared to the previous year.
The Best Photo Journalism category attracted the most entries (79), followed by Best News Video (65) and Best Video Podcast (46).
MPI also held its second Townhall session — an interactive platform for sponsors and contributors to exchange views and gain insights from a panel of media professionals. The session was themed "Opportunities and Space in Media Coverage."
The initiative is aimed at strengthening understanding between the media and industry stakeholders, particularly in crafting effective corporate messaging and strategic communication.
Panellists included Yoo, MPI board director and Sinar Harian editor-in-chief Zambri Rambli, and Bernama's Head of Commercial, Datuk Mastura Hassan. The session was moderated by MPI deputy president and Media Prima Berhad's Deputy Group Managing Editor for News and Current Affairs, as well as New Straits Times Group Editor, Farrah Naz Karim.
