Partnership matters in challenging year for print media
PETALING JAYA: Newly elected chairman of the Malaysian Newspaper Publishers Association ( MNPA), Dato' Mohammad Azlan Abdullah called for close partnerships among industry players for mutual benefit in a challenging year for print media.
The CEO of New Straits Times Press ( Malaysia) Bhd was elected unopposed at the MNPA’s 44th Annual General Meeting.
Other MNPA executive committee appointments include Star Media Group Bhd’s Group COO Calvin Kan King Seong and Nanyang Press Holdings Bhd’s Group COO cum CEO Liew Sam Ngan, who were elected Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer respectively.
While acknowledging that figures for the print media were on a downward trend, Azlan said it still commanded the reach in its readership and substantial portion of the advertising expenditure pie.
“Publishers have a very challenging year ahead but we have to continue to strengthen our position as the preeminent provider of news and content. I urge all members and stakeholders to come forward to play a more prominent role and have greater engagement with MNPA,” Azlan said.
“While it continues to be collectively involved to witness our vision realised – particularly during these challenging economic times – I remain mindful that the Association’s ability to affect change is dependent on the strength of our membership, our strategic partnerships within the government and industry, and the commitment of our Council Members.”
The MNPA will increase engagement with peer industry bodies and bolster industry-wide collaborations throughout the year as well as introduce new initiatives to boost the standing of print media.
“I believe newspaper publishers are resilient entities throughout the centuries and as long as they persevere and evolve, print media will continue to be relevant. There is a need for a united voice to promote, protect and represent the interests and welfare of the industry and its members.
Towards this end, Azlan mentioned that one of MNPA’s main goals this year wastoexpanditsmembershipandlaunch various activities and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
“MNPA has accomplished much last year and ambitious plans are in place for it to remain on the right track. I call upon our members to lend their talent to the further growth of MNPA and subsequently benefit from the exposure offered,” Azlan concluded.