KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 — The media plays an important role as a strategic partner of local authorities to improve the people’s knowledge of policies, initiatives, and public service delivery, said Petaling Jaya Mayor Dato’ Mohamad Zahri Samingon.
He added that although each local authority has its corporate communications unit, the media’s wide reach on various platforms makes cooperation between both parties important to ensure information is effectively delivered to the people.
“The media doesn’t just deliver news, but is a strategic partner in shaping the people’s understanding of policies and public services, and channelling accurate, legitimate information to various segments of the community.
“The media also acts as a link between local authorities and the community, so this strategic cooperation must be empowered to ensure information delivery positively impacts both parties,” he said in his speech at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Media Awards at M Resort & Hotel here last night.
Zahri also said 2,143 pieces of news about MBPJ were recorded this year, involving 788 print copies and 1,355 online reports.
He added that MBPJ Media Awards, this year’s edition of which comprises 14 categories, means to recognise media practitioners’ achievements in delivering accurate, effective, and comprehensive information to the community.
Among the categories were the Mayor’s Special Media Award, Best Special Report Award (Print, Electronic and Digital Media), and Best Article Award (Bahasa Melayu, English, and Chinese).
Each winner received a cash prize, trophy and certificate as a token of appreciation for their contributions in fortifying information delivery and promoting MBPJ’s various initiatives and services to the public.
