KUCHING: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has made the nation proud by winning an international award last week, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He said MCMC received an award in the telecommunications category at the Geospatial World Excellence Awards in Rotterdam on May 13-16 for its communications infrastructure permit management system.
"Out of over 200 organisations which took part in the awards, only eight were winners and MCMC was one of them.
"Congratulations to MCMC for the achievement," he told reporters after opening the National Journalists Day (Hawana) exhibition here on Saturday (May 25).
Fahmi said the award-winning system had benefited over 1,000 users nationwide, particularly local authorities in helping them to manage telecommunications infrastructure.
"Not only does it identify permits which need to be updated, it has also helped to increase the revenue of local authorities," he said.
Fahmi also welcomed local and international journalists to the three-day Hawana, which begins on Saturday.
He said the media practitioners came from 11 countries, including six in Asean.
"For next year's Hawana, I hope we can invite journalists from every country in Asean," he added.
In his speech earlier, Fahmi said media practitioners must adapt to changes and challenges in the digital era.
He said journalists nowadays need new skills such as photo and video editing to meet the expectations of readers.
"In addition, media practitioners have to compete with social media users while maintaining their integrity and ensuring accuracy.
"It is up to journalists to adapt to these changes without sacrificing the principles and integrity of journalism," he said.
Various media organisations and agencies showcased their services at the exhibition.
There was also a display of old media equipment.
