KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Negara president Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah has underscored the importance of clear, ethical, and effective communication as the foundation of public trust and the lifeblood of a thriving democracy.
He made the remarks at the Institute of Public Relations Malaysia (IPRM) Accreditation Ceremony at the Auditorium Tan Sri Azman Hashim, AICB Centre of Excellence, on Thursday.
The event honoured 12 public relations and communication management professionals who achieved accreditation, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s communication industry.
Attending the event were IPRM president Jaffri Amin, IPRM Accreditation Board chair Professor Datuk Seri Dr Syed Arabi Idid, and IPRM Sarawak Chapter director Sahrein Maloh.
In his speech, Awang Bemee described the accreditation as a profound honour and a crucial moment for the public relations profession, emphasising that the credential represents far more than recognition alone.
“Accreditation is a formal recognition of professional competence, ethical conduct, and an unwavering commitment to lifelong learning.”
He outlined the threefold purpose of the accreditation process: professional validation, public assurance, and continuous development, ensuring that communication practitioners meet high standards, operate with integrity, and remain adaptable in the ever-evolving communication landscape.
From his perspective in Parliament, Awang Bemee observed that Malaysia’s media environment today is shaped by digital transformation, challenged by misinformation, and influenced by global narratives.
Additionally, he said this makes the role of credible and ethical communicators indispensable in sustaining public confidence.
“Accreditation not only enhances professional standing but reinforces accountability, a quality crucial to navigating today’s complex communication environment responsibly.”
He also commended IPRM for its vital role as Malaysia’s professional body for public relations, ensuring practitioners are skilled, principled, and guided by a strong code of ethics.
The 12 newly accredited practitioners successfully completed a rigorous assessment process, including written evaluations, portfolio reviews, and a professional pledge to uphold ethical standards.
Their expertise spans strategic communication planning, ethical practice, leadership, crisis communication, and management; areas that form the backbone of credible communication practice.
Awang Bemee concluded by congratulating the accredited professionals and called upon them to see the recognition as both a personal achievement and a civic duty.
“Your achievement not only elevates your professional standing but also strengthens the institutions and communities you serve.
“Your accreditation is a promise of excellence, a beacon of trust, and a contribution to the betterment of society.”
