KUCHING: The presence of Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai at the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) Gawai Media Night further strengthened his bond with the local media, not only as a friend but as a strong supporter of the media fraternity.
The Minister in the Premier’s Department said the good relationship between the government and the media must always be maintained and strengthened not just during festive seasons, but at all times.
“We believe that open and respectful communication is the foundation of closer cooperation for the benefit of the people.
“I truly appreciate the efforts of media practitioners in Sarawak, especially friends in KDJA, who are constantly on the ground, capturing the voices of the community and reporting on the realities in the field, particularly in rural areas,” he said in his speech during the event on Monday (Jun 23),
Sikie also highlighted Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s initiative to send local journalists for an executive training programme in the United Kingdom as a way to elevate the quality and standards of journalism in the state.
“Although this opportunity is limited to a select number of journalists, I hope those who were not chosen will not feel disheartened.
“Instead, understand that this is one of the government’s efforts to support the journalism industry in Sarawak.
“We also hope that those who are selected, upon their return, will share the knowledge and experiences they gained with the local media community. As the saying goes, ‘The fuller the paddy, the more it bends,’” he added.
He also called on all media practitioners to continue highlighting the stories and voices of the Dayak community — their customs, history, language, culture, and daily lives.
“This cultural treasure must continue to be widely disseminated, especially among the younger generation, so they can know and take pride in their cultural roots.
“This is important to prevent it from being lost or fading away in the digital age, where social media dominates the lives of our youth,” he said.
In the same vein, Sikie also expressed hope that the media would help in promoting native languages or the ethnic languages of every community in Sarawak.
“If you’ve noticed, RTM, through its wai.fm Iban radio channel, features a segment called ‘Seleka Jaku Saritu’ at 7.45 am.
“This segment is dedicated to explaining or giving meaning to Iban words that are rarely heard or used in everyday conversation. This helps, especially the younger generation, to understand these Iban words.
“In my view, this wai.fm Iban initiative is very useful in preserving and spreading understanding of our mother tongue.
“Perhaps our media friends can also take similar initiatives, publishing one or two words from any Sarawak ethnic language along with their meanings in their publications, whether online or in daily print. This can help us all to learn each other’s ethnic languages,” he said.
The KDJA Gawai Media Night was a historic occasion, as it was the first time such an event was organised by the association.
Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Henry Harry Jinep was among the dignitaries present.
