JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli (middle) presenting Star Media Group news editor Farik Zolkepli (right) with a certificate of appreciation during the JPJ media appreciation night on Tuesday (Nov 25)—CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
PUTRAJAYA: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) held its first-ever nationwide media appreciation night, acknowledging the essential role played by journalists in helping the agency communicate policies, enforcement efforts and road safety messages to the public.
JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, in his address, said the event marked a significant milestone for the department, which had previously only held smaller-scale engagements with the media.
“This is JPJ’s first large-scale media appreciation event involving representatives from all over the country,” he said, thanking media practitioners for their unwavering support.
Among the recipients was Star Media Group news editor Farik Zolkepli, who received a certificate of appreciation for the media.
Aedy said that media coverage of JPJ operations and announcements has remained consistently strong, with the department recording no fewer than 10 news items daily and more than 50 reports each month.
These figures, he said, reflect the media’s commitment to delivering clear and accurate information to Malaysians.
“Without the media, JPJ cannot stand on its own.
“The challenges we face and the issues we address require strong partnerships,” he said.
“The media has been instrumental in helping us reach the public,” he added.
He added that the media plays a strategic role not only in disseminating information, but also in shaping positive public perception and understanding of JPJ’s work—especially in areas of enforcement, advocacy and road safety education.
Aedy also expressed appreciation to journalists who travelled from various states, including Perak, Johor, Terengganu and Kelantan, to attend the event.
He praised their professionalism and their willingness to cover JPJ programmes across the country.
Looking ahead, he announced that JPJ will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year, with major events scheduled for April.
He invited media organisations nationwide to participate, saying the department intends to continue strengthening media engagement in the coming years.
Aedy reaffirmed JPJ’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the press.
“Your dedication helps ensure that road safety messages reach every layer of society.
“We value this partnership and hope it continues to benefit the public,” he said, while also thanking JPJ staff involved in planning and coordinating media activities.
