Kota Sentosa rep: Media must serve public interest, not specific parties

KUCHING (Dec 29): Media practitioners play a role that ultimately serves the public interest, not specific parties, by informing the public of current developments while shaping public opinion, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

He reminded media practitioners to uphold integrity, professionalism and factual accuracy in their reporting, noting that responsible coverage helps ensure transparency, accountability and public awareness.

“I would like to encourage all of you to continue this approach. There is no need to put extra vinegar, there is no need to put in extra salt in your news reporting.

“Just tell the truth,” he said when speaking during the Kota Sentosa Media Appreciation Night at a resort here on Sunday.

He also emphasised the role of the media in helping the government to ‘listen better’, adding that Sarawak’s policies require clear and accurate communication to effectively reach the public.

“Constructive feedback from the ground, reflected through your reporting, allows the Sarawak government to refine its policies and perform even better for the people,” he said.

At the same time, he urged media practitioners to exercise caution when publishing statements or press releases submitted by various parties, in order to avoid misunderstandings among the public.

“While such reporting keeps the government on its toes, media practitioners should fine-tune their work by verifying whether the information channelled to them is accurate,” he said.

Also present were Temenggong Datuk Tan Joo Phoi, Datuk Kiung Choi Hin, Datuk Jacky Chai, Pemancha Jakup Buan, Penghulu Lai Boon Khee, Kapitan Lee Tho Fung and other distinguished guests.