Reward for fostering unity

KUALA LUMPUR: Recognising its efforts in promoting unity and leadership, the Star Media Group (SMG) has been awarded the National Unity Media Leadership award.

The award was conferred at the Sejahtera Malaysia Forum which highlighted the objectives of Rukun Negara.

The event was organised by KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, Dialog Rakyat and UCSI University yesterday.

In his keynote speech, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang emphasised the need to turn the principles of Rukun Negara into reality for every Malaysian.

“The Rukun Negara has been our guiding star, continuously fostering patriotism and unity. The harmony and unity among Malaysia’s multiracial community over the last five decades are direct manifestations of the five principles of the Rukun Negara,” he said.

Meanwhile, The Star managing editor Brian Martin said SMG is committed to promoting unity and understanding among the diverse communities as one of the leading media groups in the country.

“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of SMG. This commitment goes beyond just our award-winning journalism.

“SMG’s platforms, from our flagship publications to our innovative radio stations and dynamic digital presence, all strive to foster open dialogue and celebrate Malaysia’s rich tapestry.

Recognition: Martin (centre) receiving the National Unity Media Leadership award from Aaron. Looking on are (from left) Yeoh, Ng and Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Omar Abdul Rahman. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star

“We even extend this mission through events, bringing people together to engage in meaningful conversations. Building a well-informed and inclusive society is key to a nation’s success, and SMG is dedicated to playing this role across all our ventures,” he said after receiving the award at Le Quadri Hotel here.

The forum also saw the son of former deputy prime minister Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, Tawfik Ismail, receiving the special icon award for his strong advocacy of moderation and unity.

The former MP also called for a bigger budget allocation for the National Unity Ministry to continue holding more programmes to unify the people.

“Your portfolio is the most important and most needed to mend fences and build rapport, and for me, personally, deserves a budget equal to if not more than that given to the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) as you serve a wider constituency,” Tawfik said, referring to Aaron’s ministry.

At the Sejahtera Malaysia Forum, KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific president Tan Sri Michael Yeoh said the programme underscores the importance of collaboration and dialogue in building a harmonious nation.

UCSI Group founder and executive chairman Datuk Peter TS Ng said platforms like the Sejahtera Malaysia Forum enable companies to reaffirm their commitment to fostering understanding and empathy among Malaysia’s diverse communities.