Media practitioners play roles in Sarawak’s progress — Gerawat
MIRI: Media practitioners in Sarawak including members of the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association ( NSJA) have effectively played their roles in nation-building and rallying the people’s support for smoother implementation of government projects.
Deputy Speaker and Mulu assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala said their responsible reporting too had contributed towards the overall progress of Sarawak, which aspires to be the most developed state in 2030.
“The media in Sarawak is a very important partner in development. Your works deserve recognitions from the authorities including the government,” he told NSJA exco members who called on him here yesterday.
He also agreed to a proposal that some key members of NSJA with outstanding contributions be nominated for state and federal awards.
The nominations for state and federal awards open this month and April and close end of March and May respectively.
Meanwhile, Gerawat welcomed smart partnership with NSJA to highlight the numerous development and events in Mulu constituency including its rich cultural heritage, tourism and economic potentials.
He also pledged to give government grant to NSJA to carry out its many activities this year.
NSJA president Andy Jong meanwhile said the courtesy call was meant to invite Gerawat to the NSJA Chinese New Year dinner and the installation of the newly- elected exco members on Feb 28.
The call was also meant to brief Gerawat on their activities and how best cooperation could be enhanced especially in reporting of events and the development of Mulu, one of the newly established constituencies in the state.
Jong also said they hoped to set up a welfare fund this year to assist members in needs and an education fund for its members and children to encourage them to achieve academic excellence.
He also said NSJA would host this year’s state-level Kenyalang Press Awards – a prestigious event that recognises the work and contribution of local journalists.
NSJA has 110 members comprising journalists, editors, sub- editors and broadcasters.
Formed in 1974, NSJA unites all practising members of the press in the northern region covering Miri, Bintulu and Limbang divisions.