Journalists urged to master additional skills - Fahmi

 

Journalists were at the forefront of our nation’s journey to independence, wielding their pens as powerful tools against colonialism and kindling the spirit of freedom.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said a key figure in this struggle was Abdul Samad Ismail, one of Utusan Melayu’s founders. He was a prominent journalist who played a crucial role in the anti-colonial movement.

“Founded in 1939, Utusan Melayu served as a platform for nationalist leaders to voice their demands for independence.

“As a result, May 29 has been declared and gazetted as National Journalists’ Day (Hawana).

“This date was chosen to commemorate the first edition of the Utusan Melayu newspaper, published on May 29, 1939,” he said at the Hawana 2024 exhibition opening ceremony in Kuching today.

Also present were the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Abdullah Saidol, as well as Bernama chairperson Wong Chun Wai, chief executive officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.

Fahmi emphasised that in today’s digital era, journalists must not only excel in crafting and writing news but also master additional skills such as photography, videography, and editing to meet the evolving demands of readers.

He said media practitioners now find themselves competing with ordinary individuals through social media in terms of the rapid dissemination of information.

However, amid this competition, they must not compromise on integrity and ensure that the information they convey remains accurate and truthful.

“Now, it falls upon the media practitioners themselves to adapt to these changes, particularly in ensuring that they can navigate the challenges more seamlessly without compromising on integrity and the core principles of journalism,” he said.

The Hawana 2024 exhibition runs from today until May 27, showcasing captivating displays that illustrate the evolution and history of journalism in Malaysia, with a special focus on Sarawak.

A total of 17 agencies are exhibiting their services, allowing visitors to access various information and participate in the activities offered.

- Bernama