Perak: The government is urged to consider introducing a dedicated aid mechanism for veteran or former media practitioners in recognition of their contributions to the nation's journalism industry, while also helping to ease their post-retirement financial burdens.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Sinar Harian bureau chief Saifullah Ahmad suggested that the assistance should include access to free treatment at government healthcare facilities, similar to the benefits enjoyed by civil servants. He emphasized that such a move would not only help reduce medical costs but also serve as a gesture of appreciation for the significant contributions of media practitioners to information dissemination and national development.
Saifullah highlighted that some retired media practitioners face health issues due to age and work-related stress throughout their careers. Providing free medical treatment would offer much-needed relief, he mentioned. He also stressed the importance of compiling comprehensive data on former media practitioners through media associations or clubs in each state to ensure aid is delivered systematically.
Echoing these sentiments, The Star photographer Ronnie Chin Foon Kheng, with 25 years of experience, noted that some former media practitioners face health challenges and limited income as they age. Chin advocated for healthcare provisions, including treatment aid and regular health screenings, to alleviate their burden. He also suggested subsistence assistance or special allowances for those without a fixed income to help them cope with the rising cost of living.
Stesen Televisyen Malaysia Berhad (TV3) journalist Shaharil Kadir proposed introducing a special card for veteran media practitioners to facilitate systematic aid delivery. The card could offer various privileges and facilities, particularly at public institutions and government agencies. Shaharil also suggested expanding the card's benefits to include incentives like discounted airfares and public transport fares, with potential strategic collaborations with the private sector to offer discounts on products and services.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil previously mentioned that state media clubs under Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia (GKMM) had been asked to submit proposals to enhance the welfare of former media practitioners. These proposals could be considered before National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) celebrations to develop a more structured support framework for industry veterans. Fahmi acknowledged that some media practitioners feel marginalised after retirement, while others prefer privacy, and a structured approach could help address their social and welfare needs.
The HAWANA 2026 celebration is scheduled for June 20 in Penang, expecting to gather about 1,000 local and foreign media practitioners, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiating the main event. HAWANA is celebrated annually on May 29, commemorating the first edition of Utusan Melayu in 1939, to honor the contributions of media practitioners to national development.