Chow (foreground, in multi-coloured shirt) and Mohd Iskandar (on Chow’s left) with journalists during the cake-cutting ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang. — Buletin Mutiara
IN an environment where the landscape is crowded with misinformation, manipulation and rapid digital dissemination, journalists serve as the boundary between fact and falsehood, truth and distortion, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said the role of the media had never been more important as society struggled to navigate such a landscape.
Speaking at the 10th anniversary of Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang and National Journalists Day (Hawana) celebration at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya, Chow said Penang government valued the media as a strategic partner in the state’s development.
State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported Chow as describing the media as one of the most important entities in disseminating accurate and timely information to the public.
He also commended journalists for their unwavering commitment to the truth, especially during challenging periods such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I remember clearly how during the pandemic, while movement was restricted for most people, our journalist friends were still out on the ground, risking their safety to deliver timely and accurate information. That dedication brought hope and clarity to many.
“Journalists of integrity are not just news writers.
“They are bearers of verified information, agents of checks and balances in a democratic nation and influencers of public thought.
“In a world saturated with fast and often confusing information, journalists play a critical role in filtering, investigating, and ensuring that what is shared is accurate and truthful,” he said during the event.
The Chief Minister also said that the anniversary marked 10 years of impactful reporting and meaningful engagement with the people of Penang.
Chow added that National Journalists Day was an important day to recognise the vital role played by journalists around the world, often in the face of grave risks, including threats to their lives.
“It is also a day to appreciate the media for giving voice to the voiceless.
“That role remains essential and must be carried out effectively.”
Chow said journalists today must embrace emerging technologies and face a range of modern challenges, but added that these challenges also brought new opportunities.
Also present were Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, Malaysian Press Institute president Datuk Yong Soo Heong, Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang president Mohd Iskandar Othman, past presidents Ahmad Zhafaran Mohamed and Imran Hilmy Tawfik Hilmy, club members, sponsors and guests.
In his speech, Mohd Iskandar said since its formation in 2015, the club had organised a wide range of programmes, from community outreach and professional development to recreational and welfare activities.
To mark its 10th anniversary, the club introduced 10 special programmes.
“As media practitioners, we do more than report the news.
“We are the voice of the people, narrative builders and custodians of truth.
“And in this challenging digital age, we must remain ethical, credible and courageous in speaking the truth,” Mohd Iskandar said in his speech.
He also encouraged part-time or contract-based media personnel to register with PERKESO for protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Mohd Iskandar announced that the club sent 10 representatives to attend the national-level Hawana celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
