Lee Kim Shin: Media as a Bridge of Communication, KASUMeS Promotes Unity and Health

(Miri, 24th) Sarawak Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that media workers are an important bridge for conveying government policies, services, and development concepts to the people and serve as a crucial force in building a united and harmonious society.

He noted that the media not only reports news but also carries a significant social responsibility, playing a key role in guiding public thought, maintaining social harmony, and enhancing public confidence in government development.

“The government highly values the role of the media in assisting in the promotion of the 'Post-Pandemic Development Strategy 2030.' The media is a communication bridge between the government and the people, helping to convey development visions, enabling people from all walks of life to understand and support the government's direction.”

He stated this morning while officiating the opening ceremony of the 'Sarawak Media Sports Carnival (KASUMeS) Northern Zone.' The event is part of the 2025 Sarawak National Journalism Day celebration, organized by the Sarawak Prime Minister's Department Sarawak Public Communication Unit and the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association along with related units.

Lee Kim Shin stated that media personnel have always fulfilled their duties with integrity and professionalism, making positive contributions to enhancing public trust in government policies and directions.

He also emphasized that the Media Sports Carnival (KASUMeS) is a very meaningful platform, not only promoting interaction among media personnel but also enhancing physical and mental health, fostering cooperation and team spirit through healthy sports activities.

“Sports are an important medium for promoting positive energy, as well as cultivating discipline, respect, and team spirit. I hope such activities can continue to be held to strengthen the media community.”

He said that in the rapidly changing environment of the digital age, media personnel must continuously improve themselves, mastering digital tools, media literacy, and high standards of journalistic ethics.

“I suggest media personnel consider contacting Curtin University to see if there are suitable courses for further study to enhance the professional level of our local media personnel and keep pace with international journalism development trends.”
He also specifically mentioned that media personnel should pay more attention to their health.

“We want media personnel to have healthy bodies, as a healthy body leads to a healthy mind. I have been allocating RM10,000 every year for several years specifically for the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association to conduct health check-ups because I believe that physical health is very important.”

“Many diseases today, such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, are related to lifestyle. Therefore, I encourage the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association to organize more health seminars or sports programs, such as collaborating with the Health Department to jointly promote awareness of healthy living.” He also shared his personal life experience, stating that a healthy lifestyle should start with diet and exercise.

“I was in charge of state sports affairs for eight years and came into contact with high-level athletes, learning how to maintain physical condition. I have been able to maintain it because I adhere to the principles of a healthy lifestyle.”

He also hopes that the media will continue to focus on reporting policies, uniting the people, and promoting harmonious content rather than trivial political matters, helping to build a stable society and strong government.

“Sarawak has a stable government led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari. The state government and all Sarawak coalition (GPS) parliamentarians will continue to focus on development and improving the people's welfare, regardless of race, religion, and culture.”

“I thank all media friends for their long-term contributions and hope everyone continues to use positive forces to promote Sarawak into a high-income region and achieve the 'Post-Pandemic Development Strategy 2030' goal.”