KUCHING: The Sarawak Media Sports Carnival (KASUMeS) 2025 has proven to be more than just a sporting event – it has become a key platform for fostering friendships and strengthening professional cooperation among media practitioners across the state.
According to Deputy Secretary of the Government of Sarawak (Operations), Datu Hii Chang Kee, the carnival is a unique initiative by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) in conjunction with Sarawak’s National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) celebration.
“Normally, we only organise conventions or seminars for HAWANA, but this year we wanted something different – more inclusive, fun, and engaging. That’s where KASUMeS came in,” he said during the carnival’s adjournment ceremony at Unity Stadium, Kuching on Wednesday.
Three Zones, One Spirit
KASUMeS 2025 was held across three zones:
- Northern Zone – Miri
- Central Zone – Sibu
- Southern Zone – Kuching
Each zone hosted a mix of leisure and competitive sports events, bringing together media teams from print, broadcast, and digital platforms throughout Sarawak.
More Than Just Competition
Datu Hii emphasised the value of sportsmanship, team spirit, and ukhuwah (brotherhood), stating that the carnival encourages a healthy lifestyle while also building strong interpersonal bonds among media professionals.
“Though there are winners and losers, what truly matters is the connection and camaraderie we build through such activities,” he added.
HAWANA 2025 Embraces AI
He also highlighted that the theme of HAWANA 2025 remains centred on technology, specifically “How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of Media and Journalism.”
Guest speakers from Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia will share insights on how AI is reshaping the media landscape, offering valuable knowledge for the future of journalism.
Expanding HAWANA’s Approach
Looking ahead, Datu Hii proposed more creative and inclusive initiatives for future HAWANA celebrations, including:
- Skills workshops
- Interactive dialogue sessions
- Casual networking events like “A Night With UKAS”
“We want HAWANA to go beyond formality — to become a comprehensive platform for media professional development and meaningful interaction,” he said.
Supporting Media Unity
Also present during the ceremony were:
- UKAS Director, Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan
- UKAS Deputy Director, Mohamed Faizal Shah Ali
- Sarawak Deputy Director, Sri Kestury Mohammed Zamhari
- FINAS Sarawak Assistant Director, Maffizan Saupie
The success of KASUMeS 2025 affirms the Sarawak Government’s continued support for the media industry—not only in capacity-building and information dissemination, but also in nurturing a supportive and cohesive media ecosystem.
