KUALA LUMPUR: Data journalism is crucial in media organisations to ensure the industry keeps pace with current developments in disseminating authentic information and news, says the Malaysian Broadcasting Department.
Its director-general Suhaimi Sulaiman said journalists must have data analysis skills and adapt to the times as the use of technology evolves.
“Data journalism is crucial. Journalists can no longer just rely on the 5W1H (Who, Where, Why, What, When and How). We need to understand data analysis,” he said when met after Bernama Radio’s Jendela Fikir Hawana 2023 Edition entitled ‘Wartawan Mencorak Persepsi Masyarakat’ (Journalists Shape Society’s Perceptions).
Suhaimi said a media company needed a data scientist to report the news in a more in-depth and hyperlocal way.
“First, we must ensure that we are relevant; second, we must be relatable – that is, we must be compatible with the people who are looking for information.
“Third, if we get all this right, our brand will be loved. If people love the brand, they will keep looking for the news we publish. So, relatable, relevant and lovable brand,” he added.
Astro Awani editor-in-chief Ashwad Ismail, who was also present, said the establishment of the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) must be expedited to ensure industry players could move freely and have self-regulation on any content published.
“I think we are looking at a long struggle to establish the MMC and planning is still ongoing. I see how we are bringing together more experienced seniors with young journalists to see what the right formula is for the MMC,” he said.
Ashwad said setting up the MMC, which is being drafted and expected to be tabled in Parliament in October, was aimed at protecting and enhancing the profession of mainstream media journalism, especially in light of the digital challenges in reporting.
The Hawana (National Journalists Day) 2023 celebration will be held in Ipoh from today to May 29 with the theme ‘Media Bebas, Tunjang Demokrasi’ (Free Media, Pillar of Democracy) to re-emphasise the issue of media freedom for journalists in carrying out their duties.
Various activities have been lined up, including a media forum involving journalists from Asean member countries, a mini carnival, a treasure hunt and a bowling competition.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to grace the event on May 28.
The date May 29 was gazetted as National Journalists’ Day in conjunction with the publication of the first edition of the Malay newspaper, Utusan Melayu, on May 29, 1939. — Bernama
