KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajji Noor has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to nurturing a just and balanced media landscape in Sabah, where every voice is valued and diverse opinions are honoured.
He highlighted the importance of safeguarding media freedom as a cornerstone for social advancement and democratic growth.
“The state government is unwavering in this pledge, and we will persist in our support for the annual Kinabalu Press Award to celebrate journalistic excellence and recognise emerging talent,” he said.
During the Kinabalu Press Award (KPA) 2024 ceremony here on Sunday night, Hajiji pointed out that responsible journalism is vital for maintaining the integrity of news reporting.
“Journalists and media outlets bear the responsibility of adhering to ethical standards, which include verifying information with credible sources and ensuring balanced coverage that reflects all viewpoints.
“This approach guarantees that their reports remain impartial and factual,” he stated, expressing satisfaction that the media in Sabah has largely supported the state government’s development initiatives.
Furthermore, he expressed pride in the state government’s role as the primary sponsor of the KPA and encouraged media professionals to uphold their commitment to delivering truthful and accurate news.
He also commended Shell, Petronas, Qhazanah Sabah Berhad, and the newest sponsor, SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd, for their support of the KPA, hoping that more organisations will emulate their commitment to the media sector.
