Kuching Division Journalists Association thanks Sarawak govt for continued media welfare support

KUCHING (Dec 4): The Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) has expressed its gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the Sarawak state government for their continued support of media practitioners’ welfare.

KDJA president Ronnie Teo Teck Wei thanked the state for the one-off RM700 allocation for private media practitioners registered with the association as of Dec 1, 2025.

“This financial assistance will provide significant and meaningful support, directly assisting our members in meeting their daily professional and personal needs,” he said in a statement.

Teo highlighted the government’s ongoing recognition of the media’s vital role, particularly during the challenging and often hazardous Covid-19 pandemic.

“The Sarawak government has consistently demonstrated its profound understanding of the media’s vital function, acknowledging our crucial role as frontliners — particularly throughout the demanding and often hazardous period of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also noted the earlier Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang (BKSS) financial aid packages, which provided targeted support to journalists and media staff during the pandemic.

“The previous disbursements and the current allocation are a clear testament to the state government’s appreciation for media practitioners who continually dedicate themselves to delivering accurate and timely information to the public, often at personal risk.

“We highly commend the Premier for his foresight and generosity in making the welfare of media personnel a sustained priority in Sarawak,” he said.