Govt Agencies, Corporate Sector Reaffirm Recognition Of Media Through HAWANA 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 (Bernama) -- The media’s frontline role in information dissemination and national development continues to be recognised by government agencies and the corporate sector, as reflected in their support for National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026.

Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) Product Development and Biotechnology Division director Elmie Adha Ismail said the agency had maintained its role as a HAWANA strategic partner for the past three years in recognition of the media’s role in promoting government initiatives, particularly those under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

“Media coverage, including by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), not only benefits pineapple growers and the wider community, but also helps enhance the image of LPNM and the government,” he said at the HAWANA 2026 Strategic Partners event here today.

Meanwhile, Penang deputy state secretary (Management) Muhammad Ghopran Yeop Hamzah said the state would fully utilise its role as this year’s HAWANA host to promote its tourism and cultural sectors.

“The presence of media from across the country will certainly help further promote Penang through their respective platforms, including social media.

“Media practitioners, who are now increasingly active on digital and social media, play an important role in promoting tourism and cultural activities in Penang, especially among young people,” he said, adding that hosting HAWANA is a valuable opportunity to enhance the state’s image among the public.

J&T Malaysia Brand and Public Affairs manager Steve Yap said the media plays a vital role in delivering information and documenting every event.

He expressed hope that HAWANA would continue to be held, not only to recognise the contributions of media practitioners but also as a platform to attract more young people into journalism.

LPNM, the Penang state government and J&T Malaysia are among 113 strategic partners providing sponsorship and support for HAWANA 2026.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching officiated the HAWANA 2026 Strategic Partners event, which was attended by Communications Ministry deputy secretary-general (Strategic Communications and Creative Industry) Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, and Bernama chief executive officer and HAWANA 2026 working committee chair Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.

Also present were Bernama editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and Bernama deputy editor-in-chief (News Service), who also serves as HAWANA 2026 project director Mohd Shukri Ishak.

The highlight of the HAWANA 2026 celebrations will take place on June 20 at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Arena Butterworth in Penang, to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The event is expected to bring together around 1,000 media practitioners from home and abroad, serving as a strategic platform for exchanging ideas and shaping the future direction of journalism.

-- BERNAMA