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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim addressed the recent religious ceremony controversies involving three Era FM radio presenters, offering them guidance at an Iftar event.
Anwar stressed the importance of supporting the MADANI Government’s efforts to foster unity while also addressing the challenges that had arisen from the incident.
The three Era FM radio DJs featured in a controversial video which mocked a religious festival which was shared on the station's social media platforms have been taken off the air.
Astro Audio in a statement said as a responsible broadcaster it viewed the situation seriously and had taken immediate action to manage things. It also apologised to those affected, adding that they are taking steps to strengthen their content review process to ensure they maintain a respectful and inclusive media environment.
The Prime Minister made these remarks before hosting the annual Prime Minister's Iftar with Media Practitioners at Angkasapuri on Tuesday evening, where he also engaged with about 500 media professionals in attendance.
Among those present at the event were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.
Anwar, who arrived around 6:45 PM in a light blue Baju Melayu, took time to interact with the journalists before continuing with the evening’s program.
As part of his ongoing support for the media industry, the Prime Minister presented TabungKasih@HAWANA contributions to 10 veteran media practitioners facing health challenges, helping them prepare for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
The TabungKasih@HAWANA initiative, launched in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2023, is managed by Bernama and aims to provide support to media practitioners in need.
"I believe the media plays a crucial role in elevating the nation’s dignity and reputation," the Prime Minister said. "My gratitude goes to my friends and all parties involved in making tonight’s event a success."
In addition to his support for the media community, Anwar also launched the book entitled ‘Amanat Integriti dan Tatakelola: Malaysia MADANI’, which was published by the Malaysian Institute of Integrity (IIM).
The book is a compilation of speeches by Anwar, centered around integrity and governance, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to good governance.
Following the iftar meal, Anwar and the attendees performed Maghrib prayers in congregation at Masjid Muhammadi in Angkasapuri.
In a social media post, he also shared that he used the occasion to reconnect with old acquaintances and media executives across print, online, television, and radio platforms before joining in the evening prayers.
At the event, Anwar highlighted the role of integrity in governance, reiterating that Malaysia’s efforts to improve its position in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) should be a collective endeavour.
"This goal requires a collective effort from the government, the private sector, and the community through legal reforms, administrative transparency, as well as continuing education on integrity," Anwar stated.
The publication of the book, according to the IIM, aims to drive the MADANI Government's efforts to improve the nation's global standing in corruption perception, with the target of achieving the 25th position by 2033.
Anwar’s commitment to integrity and transparency in governance was further highlighted by his remarks at the event.
He emphasised that this publication serves as an important reference for efforts to create a corruption-free Malaysia and foster a society that values integrity.
The book launch event was attended by notable figures including the Communications Minister, IIM Chief Executive Officer Rahman Mohd Din, Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, and several other government and media representatives. – March 12, 2025