MALAYSIA’S journalists and media practitioners have been recognised as key defenders of democracy and national stability, with Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof praising the profession’s role in ensuring the public receives accurate, balanced and trustworthy information amid increasingly complex digital challenges.
In a message issued in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026, Fadillah said the country’s media community continues to play a critical role in strengthening public understanding, promoting informed discourse and maintaining social harmony.
He stressed that journalism today extends beyond conventional news reporting, particularly as the rapid spread of misinformation, online slander and sensationalist content continues to test the credibility of information platforms worldwide.
“The dedication of all journalists carries immense significance in strengthening democracy and building a knowledgeable and well-informed society,” he said.
“In an increasingly challenging and rapidly changing media landscape, the role of journalists is not merely to report news, but also to serve as an important bridge between the people and the government.”
Fadillah described a free, responsible and ethical media environment as an indispensable strategic partner in preserving Malaysia’s unity, security and long-term development.
He also paid tribute to journalists working in difficult and high-risk conditions, including during crises and disasters, to ensure the public remains informed with verified and balanced reporting.
“I deeply appreciate the sacrifices of journalists who are always on the ground, whether during disasters, crises or highly challenging circumstances, to ensure the people obtain authentic and balanced information,” he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister warned that the digital era has intensified pressures on the media industry, particularly through the rise of fake news, defamatory content and sensational reporting practices that threaten public confidence.
“In today’s digital era, the challenges posed by the spread of false information, defamation and sensationalism require media practitioners to remain firmly committed to journalistic principles based on facts, integrity and accountability,” he added.
Fadillah reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the media’s importance in the national development process, saying stronger collaboration between authorities and media organisations would help communicate government policies and development initiatives more effectively across all levels of society.
He further expressed hope that Malaysia’s media sector would continue evolving alongside technological progress while preserving the core values of professionalism, ethics and humanity.
“Journalists are not merely recorders of history, but among the important individuals shaping public thinking and the future of the nation,” he said.
Concluding his HAWANA 2026 message, Fadillah extended his appreciation to media practitioners nationwide and encouraged them to continue carrying out their responsibilities with resilience, integrity and dedication.
“Continue to remain steadfast, full of integrity and dedicated in fulfilling your responsibilities for religion, race and nation. Thank you for all your services and sacrifices,” he said.
This year’s HAWANA celebration carries the theme “Media Integrity, Foundation of Credibility”, underscoring growing calls for ethical journalism and responsible reporting standards in the digital age. - May 29, 2026
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