By Shuhaida Mohd Said
ALOR SETAR, May 19 (Bernama) -- Media practitioners, as key conduits of information, can be regarded as ‘ambassadors’ in promoting and highlighting Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair for 2025,
Universiti Malaya (UM) senior lecturer at the Department of Political Science, Public Administration and Development Studies, Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub, said in line with Malaysia’s responsibilities in leading the regional agenda, reporting on the country’s initiatives, policies, and achievements—particularly in economic integration, political stability, and sustainable development—must be strengthened and brought to the forefront.
According to Mohammad Tawfik, the role of local media goes beyond simply delivering news across the country.
“The media plays a significant role in highlighting people’s rights, promoting justice, and showcasing fair leadership—not only for Malaysia but also as an example to other ASEAN member states,” he told Bernama recently.
He added that local media not only serves as a communication bridge between the government and the people but also crosses ASEAN borders to help strengthen diplomatic ties within the region.
“Journalistic reports have a considerable impact on diplomatic relations, and the media serves as an important ‘ambassador’ by fostering closer ties among ASEAN nations—resolving issues, and promoting the strengths of member countries, such as political stability, cultural richness, and multi-dimensional capabilities,” he said.
With Malaysia set to chair ASEAN in 2025, Mohammad Tawfik said this presents a timely opportunity for the media to highlight national achievements such as political stability, shared-interest policies, and the Unity government’s success in achieving common goals.
“This is a crucial responsibility for the media and journalists, who must adopt a 'soft intervention' approach to foster public trust and confidence,” he added.
He said Malaysia’s media excellence has been recognised internationally, as reflected in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, which saw the country rise 19 places to the 88th position this year.
“This achievement reflects the success of Malaysian journalists and the strong support of the Unity government in elevating the role of media,” he said.
In conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2025, Mohammad Tawfik expressed hope that media practitioners will continue to promote Malaysia’s achievements across all sectors for regional recognition, particularly among ASEAN member states.
The highlight of HAWANA 2025 celebration will take place at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on June 14. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the celebration, and the event is expected to draw around 1,000 media practitioners from local and international organisations.
Organised by the Ministry of Communications with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, HAWANA will feature various events including a Pantun Festival on May 31, a pre-launch event with strategic partners at Wisma Bernama on June 3, and a media forum co-hosted with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) on June 14.
Also lined up are a three-day HAWANA carnival and exhibition at Sunway Putra Mall starting June 13, traditional-themed media sports, and a roadshow to premier polytechnics in Selangor, Perak, and Johor.
Now in its fifth edition since its launch in 2018, HAWANA is held annually to honour the role and contributions of media professionals in national development.
After its debut in Kuala Lumpur, the main celebrations were subsequently held in Melaka (2022), Perak (2023), and Sarawak (2024).
-- BERNAMA
