By Sheeda Fathil
SHAH ALAM, April 2 — It is important for elected representatives to work closely with the media to promote the state government’s initiatives effectively, said state executive councillor for health and environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin.
The Bandar Utama assemblyman said this during an iftar event held at Restoran Chandat@Terapung last night, which was attended by 30 media practitioners.
“God willing, I intend to make this event an annual tradition to celebrate the media’s contributions.
“The collaboration between elected representatives and the media is crucial to ensure that all our initiatives are effectively communicated to the public,” she said.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari had similarly stressed the importance for the media and state agencies to collaborate and tackle challenges ahead, especially those concerning the public.
He said these challenges arise from persistent queries by the public regarding the legitimacy of the state’s actions and concerns, such as if the government is taking advantage of them.
“The media, government-linked companies (GLCs) and state agencies must not be complacent.
“We are currently facing challenges from the public, including anti-mainstream sentiments and psychological resistance against the authorities.
“We must mentally prepare ourselves for these challenges,” he said at a separate iftar programme at his official residence yesterday.