Etiquette among aspects reflecting journalist’s commitment to profession, says minister

KUCHING (Sept 30): Etiquette and professionalism are a reflection of a journalist’s commitment to the craft and integrity of the profession.

This was highlighted by federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing at the opening ceremony for a workshop conducted by the Freelance Journalists Association Kuching (Pewarta) here today.

The programme was run in collaboration with Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), in which Tiong is the president.

“There were instances where journalists were denied entry, not due to exclusion, but because of the need to uphold professional standards.

“Some reporters arrived at formal events, dressed informally.

“While we value your work, expectations must be met, especially in high-level functions.

“Wearing casual attire at diplomatic events or formal meetings sends the wrong message not just about the individual, but the media as a whole.

“Beyond attire, the nature of the questions posed should align with the serious tone of the occasion,” said Tiong in his speech, which was delivered by PDP vice-president Dato Henry Harry Jinep.

On the workshop, Tiong regarded it as being ‘useful and also timely’, in view of recent concerns about the media access to certain events being rejected.

“Professional appearance enhances credibility. First impressions are lasting, and professional attire conveys authority, competence and respect for the event.

“However, professionalism goes beyond appearance. Journalists must also be punctual, communicate effectively with organisers, and be prepared for the context and sensitivities pertaining to the event.

“This brings me to PDP’s support for etiquette workshops tailored for journalists.”

The workshop, said Tiong, addressed various topics – from dressing appropriately for events to handling sensitive situations.

He also said that it was in everyone’s interest for journalists to be well-prepared for any events that they had been assigned to cover.

“We rely on the media to deliver our messages, and through workshops like this, we aim to build a positive, collaborative relationship.”

In this regard, Tiong reiterated PDP’s commitment in strengthening its rapport with the media.

“Working together, we can improve the way news is delivered to the public, ensuring that the interactions are conducted with respect and professionalism.

“Let us continue building a professional, respectful and collaborative media environment.”

Meanwhile, in giving his personal views, Henry said it would be apt for media representatives to be accorded due recognition as professionals by the public, starting with addressing them as ‘journalists’ instead of ‘reporters’.

“This is because their scope of work nowadays goes beyond reporting; they are also analysing matters and making sure that they (news) are indeed publishable.”

Also present at the event were Pewarta president Peter Sibon, the event speakers Dr Dianne Tsen and Mohamed Salleh Sani, as well as Dr Charlie Dudang, the representative of Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).

Tsen is the founder of a renowned corporate training and education consultancy that specialises in corporate market development, branding, and personal image, while Mohamed Salleh is a protocol officer of the Astana Negeri Sarawak, the official seat for the Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak.

Separately in a press statement, Peter said the workshop was aimed at elevating leadership and professional standards within the media industry.

“This workshop is set to refine key soft skills essential for leadership in journalism, focusing on five pivotal modules: ‘First Impression Matters’, ‘Building Credibility’, ‘Enhancing Relationships’, ‘Career Advancement’, and ‘Adapting to Diverse Environments’,” he said.

A unique feature of this workshop, Peter added, was its eligibility for World Civility Index (WCI) points offered in partnership with the International Soft Skills Standards and Testing (IITTI) and supported by the United Nations (UN).

The IITTI WCI is a global standard for measuring soft skills like etiquette, emotional intelligence, and cross-cultural competency. It is the ‘gold standard’ for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership qualities and civility in both local and international contexts.

Moreover, it is an integral part of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the importance of civility and ethical behaviour at the highest level of leadership.

“Those in management who attended the workshop would not only refine their interpersonal skills, but also contribute to global civility rankings, reinforcing their organisation’s commitment to ethical journalism,” said Peter.

The ‘Etiquette Workshop for Journalists’ involved 50 participants representingvarious media houses in Sarawak.