Kota Kinabalu: CHIEF Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor assured that the State Government is committed to ensuring a fair and equitable media environment in Sabah.
“We want to ensure all voices are heard and that all views are respected. Respecting and protecting press freedom is crucial for social progress and democratic development.
“The State Government is firm on this matter. Therefore, we will continue to support the annual organisation of the Kinabalu Press Award to promote journalistic excellence and encourage new talent,” he said.
Speaking at the Kinabalu Press Award (KPA) 2024 at the Hilton, Sunday, the Chief Minister said responsible reporting impacts the integrity of news.
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The Chief Minister was also pleased to know that the media in Sabah, in general, has shown support by reporting on all development agendas implemented by the State Government today.
He said it is important to strengthen smart partnerships in disseminating clear and accurate information to the people in this State.
Hajiji said the KPA’s theme “Progress through Smart Partnership” is apt because he believes cooperation between media practitioners and the State Government is crucial in disseminating information about the state’s development agenda, particularly the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan.
“Media practitioners in Sabah, through their reports, can focus on critical developments that most impact the state and its people while also reporting on other equally important issues,” he said.
In this regard, Hajiji said the State Government is proud to continue being the main sponsor of the KPA.
“I hope the dedication of media practitioners continues to be at the highest level in reporting true, authentic, and accurate news,” he said.
The Chief Minister also praised Shell, Petronas, Qhazanah Sabah Berhad and SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd for co-sponsoring the awards.
“I hope more will follow their efforts to support the media industry,” he said.
Sabah Journalists Association President Datuk Muguntan Vanar said Artificial Intelligence is changing how many in the media industry work.
“But, we cannot and should not fully rely on it. We, reporters, sub editors and editors cannot be replaced by a programme or to use the IT term Bots. In reporting or editing news, ethical or legal decisions rely on our own judgement, AI perhaps can give you a clean copy but not the human touch.
“It might be a good tool to ease your workload but we should all use our grey matter, as our brain is the best super-processor.
“Always ensure that the articles submitted for the KPA are your original work. Not AI. Our judges, being seasoned at this game, will be able to tell the difference,” he said.
He also noted the lack of fresh new faces in the media industry, adding it is perhaps time for media companies here to offer better salaries to attract the young and lift the salary increment freeze that has affected existing staff since the Covid pandemic.
“I thank the state government for its direct and indirect support of the mainstream media companies in Sabah through advertising and advertorials in recent years.
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