Anwar urges journalists to initiate ideas, elevate Malaysia’s democratic capabilities

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised the crucial role journalists and the media play in Malaysia, stating that they have a responsibility to not only report accurate news but also to guide and initiate ideas for nation-building. He encouraged media practitioners to freely express their views and provide constructive criticism to the country’s leadership for improved governance.

Anwar expressed his belief in the importance of journalists’ freedom to criticise the country’s leadership and engage in differing opinions. Speaking at the 2023 Malaysian Press Night in conjunction with the MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards (HKM) 2022, he said, “I firmly believe a journalist’s job is not just to report but to initiate ideas for the country.”

The prime minister also urged media professionals to act as educators, fostering people’s interest in reading and acquiring knowledge. He stressed that without a strong interest in reading, the public would lack a proper understanding of the issues affecting the country, including policy and governance matters.

Anwar highlighted the current challenge of enhancing Malaysia’s democratic capabilities based on the concept of Malaysia Madani. He added that democratic freedom could only be elevated through ‘fresh’ discourse driven by journalists. The event was also attended by Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, his deputy Teo Nie Ching, Malaysia Press Institute (MPI) CEO Chamil Wariya, and Petronas Executive Vice President Liza Mustapha.

Chamil reported that the 2022 edition of the MPI awards received 368 entries, compared to 350 in 2021. He also announced that Petronas has agreed to sponsor HKM for the next three years, which will include a new category for radio and television.