KUCHING: The media must continue serving as the vital bridge between the people and the government by delivering accurate, balanced and responsible reporting that strengthens public understanding and national unity.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said the media’s role has become increasingly significant in today’s information-rich environment, where journalists are entrusted not only with informing the public but also with fostering better communication between society and the government.
“The media is the primary communication bridge connecting the people and the country’s administration. In this era of information overload, the media carries a critical responsibility in delivering accurate information and narrowing the gap in understanding between society and the government,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2026 and National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 Sarawak-level dinner at the Pullman Hotel here on Thursday (Jul 16) evening.
Abdullah said transparent reporting enables the media to filter out misinformation while helping the public better understand government policies by presenting them in language that is clear and accessible.
He said the media also serves as an important platform for the people by conveying their views, concerns and aspirations directly to policymakers.
“The media is not only responsible for explaining government policies but also for ensuring that the voices of the people are heard by those in authority,” he said.
Abdullah stressed that this responsibility must always be accompanied by professionalism and ethical journalism.
He cautioned media practitioners against producing sensational reports aimed solely at attracting online traffic, warning that click-driven journalism without proper verification could unnecessarily create fear, confusion and panic among the public.
“Reports that merely pursue clickbait without proper scrutiny can cause unnecessary anxiety within society,” he said.
Abdullah also reminded journalists to remain mindful of Malaysia’s multicultural society by avoiding narratives that touch on racial or religious sensitivities or promote hatred.
Instead, he said reporting should always be constructive and contribute towards strengthening harmony among Malaysia’s diverse communities.
“Media reports should unite the people rather than divide them. They should encourage understanding, preserve harmony and contribute positively to nation-building,” he said.
While technology continues to reshape the media landscape, Abdullah stressed that the industry’s commitment to ethics, accuracy and public service must remain unchanged.
“The credibility of the media depends not only on how quickly news is published, but also on how responsibly it is reported,” he added.
