KDJA Calls For Better Welfare, Protection For Sarawak Journalists

KUCHING, May 29 (Bernama) -- The Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) has called for stronger welfare protection for media practitioners in Sarawak, especially young journalists, freelancers and stringers.

Its president Ronnie Teo said several recent legislative developments at the national level offer hope for positive change within the media industry.

“We welcome several important legislative developments at the national level that offer hope for positive change such as the Gig Workers Act 2025, which is now in force and provides greater protection for freelancers and stringers in the gig economy.

“We urge media organisations and digital platforms to fully implement fair contracts, minimum payment standards, insurance coverage and dispute resolution mechanisms for Sarawak’s freelance journalists,” he said in his message in conjunction with National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 today.

Teo said the Malaysian Media Council Act 2025, which establishes a framework to uphold media standards, independence and professional development plays a crucial role in elevating the ethics, conduct and sustainability of the country’s media ecosystem.

He said these initiatives represent meaningful progress; however, much more needs to be done to translate these policies into tangible improvements on the ground in Sarawak.

“We remain deeply concerned about persistent low and irregular remuneration amid rising living costs among Sarawakian journalists. This is on the back of heavy workloads, irregular hours, mental health strain and inadequate support systems.

“Today, safety risks faced by journalists covering sensitive or remote assignments are still present. There is also the need for more localised training, capacity building and Sarawak-specific welfare schemes,” he added.

Introduced in 2018, HAWANA recognises the contributions of journalists to national development, with May 29 chosen to commemorate the first publication of Utusan Melayu in 1939.

HAWANA 2026 carries the theme “Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility”. The main celebration, to be held in Penang on June 20, will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

-- BERNAMA