By Cindy Lai onSarawak
Lee presents an award to Kiew (right), who has devoted 37 years to the field of journalism at the NSJA 50th anniversary celebration.
MIRI (April 26): The media’s role in shaping an informed and united society has become more crucial than ever, particularly amid modern challenges threatening the integrity of public discourse, said Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
Speaking at the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) 50th anniversary celebration, Lee commended media professionals, especially in Miri, for their enduring commitment to professional journalism.
“Every article written, every photo captured, and every story told has played a part in shaping a more informed, thoughtful and connected society.
“Your commitment to professional journalism has fostered trust, encouraged civic discourse, and ensured that the public remains well-informed, even during the most uncertain of times,” said Lee, who was deputising for Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the golden jubilee event held at a leading hotel here.
However, he pointed out that the rise of social media has introduced significant hurdles for the profession.
“While it has democratised content creation and amplified diverse voices, it has also led to the unchecked spread of misinformation and disinformation.
“In the midst of this chaos, journalists carry an even greater responsibility, not just to report but to verify, to clarify, to cut through the confusion and to guide,” he said.
He also touched on the double-edged nature of technology, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the media landscape.
“Just recently, we saw how an AI-generated image mistakenly omitted the moon from our national flag—a small but symbolically significant oversight.
“These mistakes were not due to a lack of knowledge but rather an over-reliance on automation. Therefore, use AI, but do not depend on it blindly. As gatekeepers of public information, the media must uphold the highest standards of accuracy,” he emphasised.
Countering claims that journalism is becoming obsolete, Lee stated that the need for professional journalism is greater than ever in a world overwhelmed by fast-paced opinions and viral content.
“We need facts, context, and perspectives that go beyond the surface,” he said urging journalists to focus on thorough research, factual accuracy and values that promote peace, harmony and unity.
The event was also attended by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs and State Public Communication Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister of Health Malaysia Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, Federation of Sarawak Journalists Association (FSJA) president Ronnie Teo, NSJA president Chai Chon Chin, and organising chairperson Clare Cinderella.
At the golden jubilee celebration, a heartfelt tribute was paid to past presidents and dedicated journalists who have served the industry for over a decade.
Among the honourees was Philip Kiew, Chief Reporter of The Borneo Post’s Miri bureau, who has devoted 37 years to the field of journalism.
journalism lead Lee Kim Shin media fraternity northern sarawak journalists association
