Hawana 2024 to highlight journalists’ role in enhancing public knowledge

The National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) 2024 is set to highlight the role of journalists as champions advocating for the freedom to disseminate information, aimed at enhancing public knowledge and contributing to national development.

Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier’s Office (Corporate Affairs, Information and Sarawak Public Communications Unit – Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said as the host of Hawana 2024, Sarawak would leverage the event to address challenges and further enhance journalists’ capabilities in fulfilling their roles.

“We are grateful for the federal government’s decision to choose Sarawak as the host for the fourth Hawana,” he said a‘er chairing the Bernama and Ukas secretariat meeting here on Thursday.

The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) editor-in-chief (assuming duties of chief executive officer) Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and deputy editor-in-chief (News Service) Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee and Ukas director Samuel Simon were also present at the meeting.

According to Abdullah, the meeting finalised several ma—ers, including activities scheduled from May 25 until the culmination of the celebration on May 27, which is expected to gather over 500 local and foreign journalists.

Among the main activities planned would be a miniconvention organised by Ukas, out to discuss topics including legislation frameworks regulating media activities across all platforms, especially on social media.

Others would be an exhibition showcasing the history and development of journalism activities in the country, particularly in Sarawak, and visits to exciting places around Kuching, such as the Borneo Cultures Museum, Sarawak State Assembly Building and Sarawak Cultural Village.

Meanwhile, Nur-ul Afida said Hawana 2024 would also recognise and acknowledge the contributions of veteran journalists through a special award, in addition to providing assistance to former journalists under the Tabung Kasih@Hawana.

“We are also planning pocket programmes such as a treasure hunt for the journalists involved in this celebration,” she said.

— Bernama photo Nur-ul Afida (centre) presents a memento to Abdullah, as (from le) Bernama deputy editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, Samuel and Hii look on.