SIBU: The journalists here are urged to always maintain their professional ethics, objectivity, and fairness and to provide the public with truthful and reliable information.
In making the call, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing pointed out that in an era dominated by uncertainties of media, journalists bear an even greater responsibilities.
Sia (sixth from left) receives a souvenir from Moh.
“I understand the pressing time constraints you are facing when reporting news. More than ever, as a reader myself, I pray that media workers always adhere to their original ethos and experience in fact-checking, rather than getting swept up in competition of “scoops” and “clicks”.
“Remember to keep focus on quality over juiciness,” he said at the Sibu Journalists Association (SJA)’s 30th anniversary celebration banquet held at a leading hotel here on Tuesday night.
Sia (second from left) hands over a long service award to Yii for his 35 years’ service in journalism.
Tiong’s speech was delivered by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s press secretary, Ross Sia Wan Teng.
The Bintulu MP said in today’s digital age, the craving for trusted, and well-researched news has never been greater.
“Journalists are the frontliners of our society, and your work ensures that the truth prevails and your words will lead our thoughts.
“The rise of fake news and disinformation threatens the very foundations of journalism, while technology continues to reshape how we consume and share news.
Sia (standing seventh from left) poses with the long service awards’ recipients.
“However, I am confident that the SJA will continue to adapt, innovate, and uphold the highest ethical standards and always make conscious efforts to battle fake news. Being victims of fake news, I’m hundred per cent with you on this,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, he also called upon the media to work with his ministry to highlight and promote Malaysian tourism as a global brand, especially the unique cultural and natural attractions that Sarawak can offer.
While commending the SJA on reaching this most significant 30th anniversary milestone, he acknowledged that journalists have always shouldered the vital burden of gathering and conveying vital information to deliver timely news to the wide readership of Sibu.
He pointed out that over the past three decades, the SJA has been a beacon of truth and a voice for the voiceless.
Tiong asserted that their dedication to pursuing the truth and holding those in power accountable have made a profound impact on our community.
” I want to congratulate the SJA on your remarkable journey thus far. As you embark on the journey where uncertainty lies ahead, remember the power of pen over sword, where in today’s context is your laptop, by the way it’s a quote from Abraham Lincoln.
“Together, we can continue to shape a brighter future for Sibu, and even Malaysia. Thank you and may the spirit of journalism continues to thrive in Sibu,” Tiong, who is also Dudong assemblyman, concluded.
Later, Sia announced a good news by the minister when he disclosed an allocation of RM10,000 to the SJA for organising its activities.
The highlight of the event included presentation of long service awards to 31 members from various media organisations, ranging from 10 to 38 years.
Among those present were Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, chairman of Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) Clarence Ting Ing Horth, chairman of Sibu General Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCCI) Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong, chairman of SJA Yii Souk Ming and organising chairlady Jane Moh.
