Local media praised for fostering unity
The media has the power to influence the mind and the mindset of the society around them. At the same time, this powerful media influence can also be used to promote unity and understanding among the people and to unify the diversity of people of all societies, religions and beliefs.
MIRI: Media practitioners in Sarawak have been praised for fostering unity and harmony among the people from over 30 ethnic groups with diverse cultures, religions and beliefs.
Stating that the Sarawak government was happy with the local media in unifying Sarawakians, deputy speaker of the State Legislative Assembly and Mulu assemblyman Dato Gerawat Gala said he was aware that the mass media had strong influence on the people, especially in ensuring unity and inter-racial harmony.
Therefore, he wants local media practitioners to maintain such positive aspects, in a responsible manner by avoiding sensitivities and writing balanced reports.
“The media has the power to influence the mind and the mindset of the society around them. At the same time, this powerful media influence can be used to promote unity and understanding among the people and to unify the diversity of people of all societies, religions and beliefs,” he said.
He made the remarks in his speech at the ‘Gawai Raya NSJA’ dinner organised by the Northern Sarawak Journalists ( NSJA) at a leading hotel here last night.
The dinner was also attended by Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting, Pujut assemblyman Dr Ting Tiong
Dato Gerawat Gala, Mulu assemblyman
Choon, Sibuti MP Lukanisman Awang Sauni, NSJA president Andy Jong and organising chairman Michelle Choo.
He believes that journalists in the state, especially in Miri, are professional in their news reports.
On the ‘Gawai Raya’ dinner, Gerawat said it showed that the journalists here respect the different cultures, beliefs and backgrounds of the ethnic groups in the state.
He was proud to note that NSJA had introduced educational incentives for children of members who excelled in public examinations, sports and cocurricular activities.
“This shows that journalists are aware that education is important to ensure better quality of life in the future. Recognising and appreciating the outstanding performance of members’ children in academic, sports and co- curricular also proves that journalists are sensitive and want to ensure their children participate in knowledge generation and become successful,” he said.
Gerawat announced an allocation of RM10,000 while Lukanisman announced an allocation of RM5,000 for NSJA.