JOHOR BARU: The world of journalism has become increasingly unique and challenging with today’s digital developments, said Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia (GKMM) president Mohamad Fauzi Ishak (pic).
He said journalism, which has existed for more than 200 years, has continued to develop over the years and has proven to play an important role in a country's development.
Earlier, before the country achieved independence, the nature and scope of journalism was seen to be limited to news reporting and as reading material, such as magazines, but it continued to expand to radio and television broadcasting after independence, he said.
"However, with the introduction of new media platforms such as news portals and social media, journalists are able to disseminate news directly to the general public in a much shorter time.
"(At the same time), the various types of communication mediums have also made it easier for the public to have access to materials and information from all kinds of news sources," he said in a statement Sunday (May 28).
Earlier, Mohamad Fauzi, who is also Johor Media Club president, was at the National Journalists' Day (Hawana) 2023 celebration hosted by the Communications and Digital Ministry and implemented by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama).
Themed "Free Media, Pillar of Democracy", Hawana 2023 which took place in Ipoh, Perak, was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Mohamad Fauzi said the theme was chosen to create awareness and re-emphasise the importance of media freedom so that there is transparency in reporting without pressure from any party.
"Journalists also need to be protected as they are vulnerable to harassment or cyber threats including cyberbullying when carrying out their duties.
"In addition, we are proud that in the recent 2023 World Press Freedom Index, Malaysia rose to 73rd position with 62.83 points out of 180 countries, compared to the 113th spot in 2022, which also showed Malaysia ranked the highest among Asean countries in press freedom." he added. - Bernama
