'Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility' Theme Of HAWANA 2026 Celebration In Penang

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 (Bernama) -- The National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration, set for June 20 in Penang, will adopt the theme ‘Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility’ to enhance the role of media practitioners in national development.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the main event, held annually to honour media practitioners, will be graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Penang International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

He said the theme also aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance the quality of information dissemination and public trust in media institutions.

“The official HAWANA 2026 logo features the iconic Penang Bridge, symbolising the host state’s rich history, heritage and modernity.

“Overall, the logo reflects HAWANA’s aspiration as a unifying platform for the media fraternity and society in supporting inclusive and sustainable national development,” he said at a weekly press conference in Angkasapuri today.

Also present were Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and deputy editor-in-chief of news service Mohd Shukri Ishak, as well as Radio Televisyen Malaysia director-general Ashwad Ismail.

Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, said activities for this year’s HAWANA celebration will begin with the Media Forum in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow to discuss current industry challenges.

Highlights include the HAWANA-DBP Pantun Festival with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka on May 9, a Strategic Partners Engagement (June 4), the HAWANA Fun Walk (June 14), Mai RIUH@HAWANA (June 19-21), HAWANA Sports Carnival (July to October) and the HAWANA Campus Roadshow (July to October).

He said that a range of activities has been planned around the main event in Penang to ensure broad participation from local and international media practitioners.

Officially celebrated annually on May 29, HAWANA is the largest gathering of Malaysian journalists, aimed at recognising the media’s role in shaping public opinion and serving as a bridge between the people and the government.

This year marks the sixth edition of the event, following last year’s celebration in Kuala Lumpur.

-- BERNAMA