KUCHING: The media plays an important role in promoting and preserving Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage while fostering understanding, mutual respect and unity among its diverse communities.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister (MOTAC) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing commended media organisations and associations for actively supporting cultural programmes and community initiatives.
He said such efforts not only celebrate Sarawak’s diversity but also strengthen social cohesion among its people.
“Sarawak’s strength lies in its diversity. We have different races, religions, languages and traditions, and we must continue to respect and appreciate one another.
“I would like to commend media associations that continue to promote and preserve our cultural heritage.
“These efforts not only celebrate our diversity, but also strengthen understanding, mutual respect and unity among our people,” he said this in his speech, read on his behalf by MOTAC press secretary Ross Sia Wan Teng during the Kuching Division Journalist Association (KDJA) Gawai Media Night at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) complex here last night (June 19).
Tiong also paid tribute to journalists and media practitioners, acknowledging the dedication and sacrifices behind their work.
He noted that while the public often only sees the final article, news clip or headline, journalists invest long hours, travel extensively and work under tight deadlines to deliver accurate information.
“Whether covering government policies, community issues, cultural events, business developments or unexpected incidents, media practitioners are often among the first on the ground and the last to leave. That commitment deserves recognition,” he said.
Touching on the rapid evolution of the media landscape, Tiong said technological advancements, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), have transformed how information is produced, distributed and consumed.
However, he stressed that technology cannot replace the experience, judgement and credibility that professional journalists bring to their work.
“Technology can help us work faster and process information more efficiently, but it cannot replace experience, judgement and credibility.
“A good journalist does more than report what happened. Professional journalism requires understanding why it happened, who it affects and why it matters. No machine can fully replicate these qualities,” he said.
During the media night, Tiong also announced an additional RM5000 to KDJA as a gesture of encouragement and appreciation for the dedication and contribution of media friends in Sarawak.
