KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) aims to improve its work quality and dissemination of information to the public.
Deputy Minister in Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said since its formation in 2018, the journey has not always been easy for the organisation to remain relevant and productive in carrying out the state government’s agenda that is getting even more aggressive and productive.
“Since UKAS was formed five years ago it has gone through different levels of maturity and adjustment, while looking for its own identity.
“We have received feedback and criticism that we would consider as constructive through the years, and the work culture of UKAS in the field has not always been the same.
“I have always said to the staff to expect the unexpected,” he said in his speech during the fifth anniversary celebration of the unit at Pullman Hotel here last night (Aug 1).
He admitted that delivering correct information and mitigating negative perceptions have not always been as easy as it seems.
“This also includes gathering information on issues and matters concerning the public which is for the attention of those who are in the government; all that needs tenacity, more importantly sensitivity and efficient skills.
“UKAS is always ready with their eyes and ears in order to collect news and stories, so that this information can be shared to the community to avoid negative and narrowminded assumptions,” he said.
The deputy minister thanked various media organisations for their support to UKAS.
“Our mission is the same, which is to develop and turn Sarawak into an informative state, and most importantly to bridge the gap between the society and the government,” he added.
He was confident that UKAS will become one of the most important media organisations in disseminating news.
“And I believe we will be able to contribute to ensure the right information is delivered to the public,” he added.
Among those present were Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar, Deputy State Secretary Datuk Hii Chang Kee and UKAS director Samuel Simon.
