Kuching: About 800 participants comprising media and communications practitioners, academics, policymakers, industry leaders and students are expected to attend the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2026 on Thursday. The conference, organised by the Sarawak Government through the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS), will discuss issues related to media trust, governance and the challenges of digital transformation and to be officiated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol stated that the conference carries the theme, "Media, Trust and Governance in a Rapidly Evolving Digital World." The discussions will focus on strengthening public trust in the media and promoting good governance. They will also explore the opportunities and challenges presented by digital technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), while reinforcing ethical journalism.

He mentioned that SMeC 2026 will feature prominent figures in the fields of media, communications and academia, including SOL Digital founder Lunnie Gan and Malaysian Media Council (MMC) deputy chairman Premesh Chandran.

Meanwhile, Abdullah noted that a dinner in conjunction with the Sarawak-level National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration and SMeC 2026 will be held in the evening and attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. The event will also feature the presentation of the Sarawak Premier's Special Appreciation Awards in five categories: Editor/Journalist/Stringer, Photographer, Videographer, Radio News Presenter/Broadcaster and Social Media Influencer.