(Miri, 26th) The President of the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association, Chai Chon Chin, stated that the media, as the overseer and historian of society, plays an indispensable role in the pursuit of press freedom and professionalism. He urged the government to pay attention to the welfare of local journalists, especially those who persist in reporting on the frontlines under challenging conditions.
He made this statement during his speech at the "50th Anniversary Gala Dinner" held in the Beacon Hall on the 5th floor of the Meritz Hotel last night.
Chai pointed out that over the past fifty years, the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association has moved forward with the times, witnessing the dramatic changes in the media environment from the era of typewriters and darkrooms to the present digital era.
"Despite the evolution of media tools, our core mission remains unchanged, which is to uphold the spirit of journalism, serve the public, and give society a voice."
He also paid special tribute to the former presidents in attendance, thanking them for their foresight and selfless dedication over the years, which laid a solid foundation for the association. He emphasized that today's achievements are inseparable from the efforts and persistence of every predecessor.
Discussing current challenges, Chai admitted that the media industry is experiencing unprecedented changes, with the digital revolution impacting traditional media operations and misinformation and misleading content on social media further undermining public trust in legitimate news.
"Journalists are not only facing increasing economic pressure and resource shortages, especially when reporting in remote areas, which is a daunting task, but these real challenges also affect news quality and talent retention in the industry."
He welcomed elements in the Malaysian Media Council Bill concerning verification mechanisms, ethical codes, and professional training standards, noting that these align with the long-standing advocacy of the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association. However, he emphasized that media independence must be strictly safeguarded against any political interference.
"In the era of information explosion, professional journalists are not only information transmitters but also social connectors, problem revealers, and cultural recorders."
He noted that Sarawak journalists are bridges between urban and rural areas, committed to conveying the voices of indigenous peoples, local culture, and grassroots realities to all sectors of society.
Chai also earnestly called on the Sarawak government to address the needs of journalists in terms of welfare and protection and to strengthen support for frontline media personnel.
Looking to the future, he said the association will continue to promote the development of journalism, train young journalists, strengthen technological innovation, and enhance cooperation with the government and civic society to jointly build a sound and responsible media ecosystem.
"Tonight's theme 'Towards Press Freedom and Professionalism' is not just a slogan but a guiding value for us to move forward sustainably."
He urged all journalists to stay united, hold their positions, speak up with their pens, create space for the silent, reveal the truth for society, and ignite hope for the future.
"Let us pass the torch, keep the flame burning, and cultivate more journalists with conviction, passion, and empathy to go further and delve deeper."
The gala dinner concluded in warmth and respect, with attendees including dignitaries, former presidents, media colleagues, and various members of society, witnessing this glorious 50-year milestone together.
