JOURNALISTS are unsung heroes of our country and their contribution is vital on nation building and fostering greater ties among multiracial Malaysia, said Yang Di-Pertuan Agong al-Sultan Abdullah Almarhum Sultan Ahmad Shah.
“And I pray for our media practitioners to continue to excel in their field and be protected from any adversities while doing their duty,” His Majesty said, in his message for the National Journalists Day, which falls today.
Heaping laurels on the press, Sultan Abdullah said he appreciated the work done by the media in disseminating information to the public; be it via television, newspapers and online portals.
However, the monarch also urged media personnel to act responsibly in the information age by respecting the laws of the land and adhere to ethics when reporting any stories.
“Although the Government respects media freedom, everyone must have a sense of responsibility when carrying out reports,” His Majesty added.
Enact laws to protect media
On related matter, Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) urged the Government to reform laws to provide better protection to media personnel.
“Media practitioners should be protected when carrying their duty as the ‘fourth estate’ and as agent of check and balance to the State.
“It’s not right when the press is only lauded when we carry stories which are deemed ‘friendly’ to the State,” it stated.
As for journalism ethics, Geramm mentioned that it should be determined by media practitioners themselves instead of powers that be.
“Any discussions on the future of Malaysian journalism must include media practitioners from various agencies, especially those still on the field rather than the group sitting on the management,” it stressed. – May 29, 2022
