Journalists Play Vital Role In Strengthening Democracy – Fadillah

PUTRAJAYA, May 29 -- In conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has conveyed his appreciation to all journalists, media practitioners and media practitioners and broadcasting personnel for their unwavering dedication in delivering accurate, authentic and integrity-driven information to the public. He said journalists play a significant role in strengthening democracy, as well as shaping a knowledgeable and informed society, especially in an increasingly challenging and fast-changing media landscape. “In an increasingly challenging and rapidly changing media landscape, the role of journalists is not only to deliver news but also to act as an important bridge between the people and the government,” he said in a post on his official Facebook in conjunction with HAWANA 2026 today. Fadillah said a free, responsible and ethical media is a strategic partner of the government in ensuring Malaysia’s stability, harmony and continued progress. He also expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices of journalists who are constantly on the ground, including during disasters and crises, ensuring the public receive authentic and balanced information. Fadillah said that in today’s digital era, the spread of false information, slander and sensationalism poses a challenge that requires media professionals to continue upholding the principles of journalism based on facts, integrity and accountability. He said the government always recognises the important role of media institutions in national development, saying that close synergy between the government and media practitioners can help ensure more effective delivery of policies and development agendas to the people. Fadillah expressed hope that the country’s media industry would continue to evolve in line with technological advances, without neglecting the values of ethics, professionalism and humanity. “Journalists are not only recorders of history, but also important individuals in shaping the mindset of society and the country’s future,” he said. The HAWANA 2026 celebration is scheduled to take place in Penang on June 20 with the theme “Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility”, aimed at strengthening the role of media practitioners in national development. The highlight of the annual event to honour the contributions of media practitioners will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Arena Butterworth. --BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA, May 29 — In conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has conveyed his appreciation to all journalists, media practitioners and media practitioners and broadcasting personnel for their unwavering dedication in delivering accurate, authentic and integrity-driven information to the public. He said journalists play a significant role […]

Govt Taking Steps To Help Media Practitioners Navigate AI, Economic Challenges -YB Fahmi Fadzil

KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 -- The government, through the Ministry of Communications, is formulating various initiatives to help media practitioners in the country navigate current challenges, including the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and economic uncertainty. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said this year’s National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) was being celebrated amid concerns among media practitioners over their jobs and future in the media industry. “This year we are celebrating Journalists’ Day in an atmosphere where many may be worried about their jobs and their future as a result of AI and economic issues. “But insya-Allah, on the government’s part, especially the Ministry of Communications, several matters are being looked into to assist friends in the media industry,” he said in his message in conjunction with the HAWANA 2026 celebration today. Meanwhile, Fahmi said the existence of a free and ethical media formed the cornerstone of the country’s democratic system. “Free and ethical media are vital, not only for the country’s democratic system, but also for the future of Malaysia,” he said. With the theme “Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility”, the highlight of the HAWANA 2026 celebration will take place at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Arena Butterworth in Penang on June 20 and is expected to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The event is expected to bring together about 1,000 media practitioners from both domestic and international backgrounds, serving as a strategic platform to generate fresh ideas and set the direction of contemporary journalism. May 29 was gazetted as National Journalists’ Day in conjunction with the publication of the first edition of the Utusan Melayu newspaper on May 29, 1939, to honour the contributions and services of media practitioners and veteran journalists in the nation’s development. Organised by the Ministry of Communications with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, HAWANA serves as the pinnacle platform in recognising the contributions, dedication and professionalism of media practitioners in Malaysia. --BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 — The government, through the Ministry of Communications, is formulating various initiatives to help media practitioners in the country navigate current challenges, including the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and economic uncertainty. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said this year’s National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) was being celebrated amid concerns […]

Bernama to host HAWANA Media Forum tomorrow, discuss industry-related issues

KUALA LUMPUR: The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum, organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), is scheduled to take place tomorrow as a platform for stakeholders in the media landscape to participate in dialogue and exchange views on issues shaping the industry. The forum, which will be held in the national capital, will bring together media leaders, journalists, academics, public relations practitioners, as well as lecturers and students from public and private universities. The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum Secretariat in a statement announced that the forum will examine the challenges in maintaining the survival of media organizations during a crisis, especially when income is increasingly limited, as well as discuss the increasing needs of journalists in adapting to an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving media landscape. In addition, the forum will emphasize the importance of forming a resilient and forward-looking Malaysian media ecosystem, especially in the context of the digital era and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). "Several Malaysian Media Council Board Members will participate in this forum as panelists, including leading special sessions, as part of efforts to strengthen professionalism and governance in the industry," the statement said. The forum, which will be officiated by Deputy Minister of Communications, Teo Nie Ching, will also feature leading journalists and industry experts who will share their views and perspectives in the day-long programme, aimed at encouraging deeper discussions and a more meaningful exchange of ideas. The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum was held in conjunction with the celebration of National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 on June 20. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum, organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), is scheduled to take place tomorrow as a platform for stakeholders in the media landscape to participate in dialogue and exchange views on issues shaping the industry. The forum, which will be held in the national capital, will bring together […]