KUCHING — Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof has called on Malaysian media practitioners to steadfastly serve as “the people’s voice, guardians of integrity, and government partners” in building an ethical and resilient nation.
Addressing 600 attendees at Wednesday’s National Reporters’ Day (HAWANA) 2025 Sarawak dinner and Sarawak Media Conference, Yusof positioned journalists as crucial architects of Malaysia’s MADANI framework, emphasizing their role in fostering social cohesion amid evolving challenges.
The Deputy Premier highlighted landmark policy advancements including the Media Council Malaysia Act 2024, which establishes industry self-regulation. “This isn’t mere policy—it’s recognition of your integrity and societal contribution,” Yusof asserted.
He concurrently announced concrete support measures: SOCSO protections for freelance journalists, KWSP i-Saraan retirement schemes, and 50% AirAsia discounts for ASEAN assignments.
Addressing artificial intelligence’s disruptive impact, Yusof framed critical questions: “Will we shape AI, or will AI shape us?” He urged practitioners to harness technology while preserving core journalistic values of empathy and fairness, expressing confidence in the collective wisdom of media professionals navigating this transition.
Yusof commended Sarawak for hosting the pivotal SMeC 2025 dialogue, announcing RM110,000 in grants to local press associations:
- Sarawak Public Communication Unit Staff Welfare Club (RM25,000)
- Youth Club Azam Bandar Kuching (RM25,000)
- Kuching (RM15k), Northern Sarawak (RM15k), Sibu (RM15k), and Rejang (RM15k) Journalist Associations
