KUALA LUMPUR: The push for greater media integrity and public trust will take centre stage as Penang prepares to host the National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) 2026 celebrations this June.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the national-level gathering, themed “Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility”, will culminate in a main event officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Penang International Convention and Exhibition Centre on June 20.
Fahmi noted that the theme aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to elevate the quality of news dissemination and reinforce public confidence in media institutions.
"The official Hawana 2026 logo features the iconic Penang Bridge, symbolising the host state's rich history, heritage and modernity.
"Overall, it reflects Hawana's aspiration as a unifying platform for the media fraternity and society in supporting inclusive and sustainable national development," he told his weekly press conference at Angkasapuri on Wednesday (May 6).
While the main highlight takes place in June, Fahmi said the celebration kicks off with a Media Forum in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (May 7) to address pressing industry challenges.
This will be followed by a slew of events designed to engage both the press and the public, including the Hawana-DBP Pantun Festival (May 9), a Strategic Partners Engagement (June 4), a Fun Walk (June 14), and the Mai Riuh@Hawana festival (June 19-21).
The momentum will continue later in the year with a sports carnival and a campus roadshow running from July to October.
Officially observed on May 29 every year, Hawana is the country's largest gathering of journalists. It aims to recognise the press's vital role in shaping public discourse and serving as a bridge between the government and the people.
This year marks the sixth edition of the celebration, following last year's event in Kuala Lumpur.
