Media associations: RM700 incentive a recognition of contributions, encouragement for media fraternity

From left: Ronnie Teo, Nancy Nais, and Peter Sibon.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 21: Media associations in Sarawak have expressed appreciation to the Sarawak Government for a one-off RM700 incentive for media practitioners, describing it as a meaningful recognition of their contributions and an encouragement to uphold professional and responsible journalism.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the incentive during his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUNS) sitting today, alongside bonuses for Sarawak civil servants and Federal officers serving in Sarawak, as well as financial assistance for retired Sarawak civil servants.

In a statement, Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) president Ronnie Teo said the initiative acknowledged the dedication, sacrifices and often unseen efforts of media practitioners in keeping Sarawakians informed on government policies, economic developments, community concerns and events across the State.

“For many journalists, our profession involves long and unpredictable working hours, demanding assignments and the responsibility of ensuring that accurate and credible information reaches the public. Such recognition is deeply appreciated by the media fraternity,” he said.

Teo added that the initiative reflected the Premier’s continued commitment to recognising the role of journalists and media professionals in Sarawak’s development. He also noted that the State Government had demonstrated concern for media practitioners through previous assistance, including during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) Sarawak Branch chairwoman Nancy Nais said the incentive went beyond financial assistance by conveying that the welfare and contributions of media practitioners were valued.

“We deeply appreciate the Premier and the Sarawak Government for recognising the contributions of journalists, photographers and media personnel, whose dedication and commitment often require them to work under demanding circumstances to deliver timely, accurate and credible news to the people.”

Nais expressed hope that the continued support would further strengthen ties between the Sarawak Government and the media fraternity, while encouraging journalists to uphold professionalism, integrity and responsible journalism in serving the public interest.

Pertubuhan Wartawan Bebas Kuching (PEWARTA) president Peter Sibon said the incentive recognised the important role media practitioners played as a link between the government and the public, particularly in communicating government policies, initiatives and the State’s development agenda accurately, fairly and responsibly.

“We regard this incentive not only as a meaningful form of appreciation but also as an encouragement for media practitioners to continue carrying out their duties with professionalism, integrity and commitment in strengthening public access to reliable information,” he said.

Sibon also hoped the gesture would strengthen the working relationship between the government and the media fraternity, while fostering greater cooperation to ensure the public received accurate, credible and quality information. – DayakDaily