Ting: Media plays key role in raising public awareness

MIRI: The media plays a vital role in shaping public awareness by shedding light on both community achievements and areas requiring improvement, says Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting. Speaking at the Media Appreciation Night cum Chinese New Year celebration here last night (Feb 21), Ting pointed out the importance of valuing the media’s role in disseminating news and keeping the public informed about government policies and current affairs. While acknowledging that the government may sometimes fall short, he stressed the importance of constructive reporting to spur development.

“For instance, during the recent floods and landslides over Chinese New Year, we witnessed people from all walks of life coming together to offer help and support. This is the power of media reporting,” he said in his opening remarks at the event hosted by the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA). The Piasau assemblyman also expressed gratitude for the strong relationship and unwavering support from the media towards the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) since the leadership of former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam.



“The strong relationship and consistent support from the media have been instrumental in the city’s development,” he added. Among those present at the dinner gathering were Miri mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang, NSJA president Chai Chon Chin, and over 40 association members. During the gathering , Ting also presented education incentives to NSJA members who excelled in their studies.

NSJA members whose homes were affected by the recent flood also received assistance..