KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) has been proposed for membership in the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) to elevate the professionalism of journalists in Sarawak.
The proposal was announced by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol during a courtesy call with a delegation from MPI to Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi at Astana Negeri Sarawak here on Tuesday (Jan 7).
Abdullah said that Wan Junaidi emphasised the need for journalists to undergo professional training to ensure high standards and credibility in reporting while addressing challenges such as misinformation, slander and racial issues, particularly those posed by ‘netizen journalists’ on social media.
“He urged us at UKAS and the Information Department to collaborate with MPI and other journalism institutes to organise various awareness and training programmes to enhance the level of professionalism among journalists.
“Wan Junaidi expressed his appreciation for all media personnel, stating that their role is highly significant both in the country and the region as they serve as a vital link between the government and the public,” he said.
On another note, MPI chief executive officer Ainol Amriz Ismail said MPI acts as a trainer and instructor to ensure the current journalism environment aligns with the standards required by government agencies.
“These days when journalists go out, they should not only act as netizens but also as professional journalists who understand all aspects of journalism, including ethics.
“Our goal is to nurture them into becoming such professionals.”
Also present were MPI president Datuk Yong Soo Heong, MPI general manager Norlida Jamain, and other guests.
