‘Journalists face challenges of discerning facts from rumours’

MIRI: Journalists as agents of change have important roles to play in disseminating correct information to the people.

Assistant Minister for Air and Land Transportation and Safety Datuk Lee Kim Shin said with rapid advancement of Information technology and the increasing use of social media, journalists faced the challenges of discerning facts from rumours.

“It is imperative that journalists adhere to the ethics of responsible reporting, “Lee said when officiating at the installation of Northern Sarawak Journalists Association’s ( NSJA) new committee here recently.

DUN deputy speaker and Mulu assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala, Assistant Minister for Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil,TelangUsanassemblyman Dennis Ngau, Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting, Pujut assemblyman Dr Ting Tiong Choon and Miri City Council mayor Adam Yii were also present.

Also present were Dayang Enterprise executive deputy chairman Datuk Ling Suk Kiong, businessman Datuk Hii King Chiong, Woodman Group of Companies managing director Datuk Sri Law Kiu Kiong, UPP Pujut chairman Bruce Chai, Miri police chief ACP Khoo Leng Huat and Bomba Zone 6 chief Law Poh Kiong.

Lee said as responsible journalists, it was imperative that they report the facts to counter any false information or half truths reported in the social media.

He also said it was important to inculcate positive values and mind- set among the people in order to bring about positive changes in society.

Earlier, Lee, who is also Assistant Minister for Tourism congratulated media practitioners for having discharged their duties and responsibilities well.

NSJA president Andy Jong also spoke at the function.

He said the association would be the host of the Kenyalang Media Awards to be held here this year.