COOPERATION between rescue agencies and the media is crucial in ensuring accurate information reaches the public promptly during emergencies, says the Civil Defence Force (APM).
“In today’s fast-moving digital age, where artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly widespread, public trust in official information is more important than ever,” said APM deputy chief commissioner (operations) Ghazali Abd Rahman.
“The media is an important strategic partner in ensuring that information on weather warnings, rescue operations, humanitarian assistance and safety measures reaches the public quickly and responsibly.”
Ghazali said this in his speech during the closing ceremony of the APM Southern Zone engagement programme with the media at the Civil Defence Training Centre (Pulapas) in Kluang, Johor.
He added that this teamwork was especially important now due to the Northeast Monsoon.
“Disaster preparedness does not depend solely on the capabilities of rescue agencies.
“While APM personnel are at the forefront of rescue operations, the media plays a leading role in delivering important information to the public even before rescue operations begin,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia president Mohamad Fauzi Ishak said the one-day programme, which gave media personnel hands-on experience in APM training, was a good way to strengthen relations.
He said the participation of media practitioners also reflected their commitment to improving cooperation with the agency.
“We hope to see more collaborative programmes in the future, including basic civil defence training and disaster simulation exercises specifically for media practitioners.
“Such programmes will help journalists and photographers become better prepared and more aware of the safety precautions when covering incidents in dangerous areas,” said Mohamad Fauzi who is also Johor Media Club president.
Among those taking part in the training was Bernama journalist Nur Fadhliana Shaari, 43, who said the programme helped her better understand challenges APM faced in its operations.
“This is my first time taking part in such an initiative and I was honestly very nervous at first.
“I think this is a good way for us to not only foster a closer relationship with APM, but also understand how difficult their jobs really are,” she said.
Astro Awani journalist Faisyah Farain Ramli, 33, said it was a memorable experience.
“I was both excited and nervous about taking part, especially since it included jumping off a building with ropes attached.
“It was scary at first, but I was able to get over my fear.
“I hope that I can take part in more training like this.”
