Kota Kinabalu: The Community Communication Department (J-KOM) is committed to strengthening its role as a bridge between grassroots issues faced by the public and the Government.
Its Director Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali said while the department also communicated the Government’s policies and messages to the public, its primary focus was to serve as a conduit for the people’s concerns.
“J-KOM exists to address problems experienced by the public at the grassroots level. The issues raised are brought to the attention of the Government and relevant parties to find solutions.
“For that reason, we are gathered today with our media partners because I believe media professionals are very close to the people, working daily and witnessing the reality of their struggles.
“Through two-way discussions, we can gather raw data and insights shared by our friends in the media,” he said when met by reporters during a get-together session between the J-KOM Director and Sabah media practitioners here on Monday.
Mohd Hisyamuddin said the main issues highlighted during the session included public income and the rising cost of living.
“This is the top issue I will raise with the Government because it is vital. When we speak about living expenses, income and family financial burdens, these are issues that genuinely deserve to be addressed.
“Additionally, we have taken note of other matters highlighted by media partners, such as the cabotage policy affecting goods prices, airfare costs, diesel issues and infrastructure concerns, particularly Sabah’s roads,” he added.
He said J-KOM was also conducting a nationwide tour of all states to engage media practitioners in similar discussions.
“We have visited many states to gather insights because our goal is to listen and present the input we receive to the Government for resolution,” he said.
A total of 40 media practitioners and J-KOM staff members attended the event.
