Hawana: State leaders have paid tribute to media practitioners in conjunction with National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026, recognising their role in delivering accurate and credible information while helping to build a well-informed society. The appreciation was extended to all media personnel, including journalists, photographers, cameramen, editors, production crews, and behind-the-scenes workers in the media industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in TERENGGANU, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar emphasised the growing importance of journalism rooted in integrity amidst today's rapid information flow. He stressed the necessity for factual accuracy, ethical reporting, and truthfulness for the benefit of the nation and its people. Dr Ahmad highlighted the tireless efforts of journalists in verifying facts and providing responsible information, describing them as key pillars in nurturing a society capable of understanding current realities fairly.
In PAHANG, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail acknowledged the media's role as a bridge between the people and the government. He praised media practitioners for conveying the issues and aspirations of the rakyat, urging them to continue strengthening unity and harmony while driving national development through credible information.
Meanwhile, in PERLIS, Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah expressed the state government's appreciation for the services and sacrifices of journalists who persist in delivering timely and accurate information despite challenges. He extended his wishes for a Happy National Journalists' Day to all journalists across the nation.
HAWANA, introduced in 2018, commemorates journalists' contributions to national development, with the annual event held on May 29 to mark the first publication of Utusan Melayu in 1939. This year's theme, 'Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility', underscores the importance of integrity in journalism, with the main celebration set to take place in Penang on June 20, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In MELAKA, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh described the media as the backbone of information dissemination, bridging the gap between the government and the people. He lauded the timely theme of this year's HAWANA, highlighting the role of journalism in shaping a mature society and maintaining public trust through integrity in reporting.
In PERAK, State Communications, Multimedia and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi remarked that HAWANA symbolises recognition for media personnel who ensure the public receives accurate and timely news. He acknowledged the profession's demands for dedication and social responsibility, appreciating the significant impact of journalists' contributions on public thinking and national direction.
Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad reaffirmed the importance of journalism as a respected pillar in building a knowledgeable society. He appreciated media practitioners for their dedication to delivering credible information, acknowledging the challenges they face in the field.
In SABAH, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that the media serves as an important bridge between the government and the people. He commended the dedication, integrity, and commitment of journalists in ensuring balanced information reaches the public, aligning with the HAWANA 2026 theme in strengthening public confidence in ethical journalism.
In NEGERI SEMBILAN, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun conveyed his appreciation to media practitioners nationwide, recognising their role in providing accurate and trustworthy information, and wishing for journalism to continue serving as a voice for truth.
In PENANG, state Rural Development, Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman, Datuk Rashidi Zinol, expressed gratitude to all media personnel for their commitment to delivering transparent and integrity-based information. He acknowledged their role as essential bridges between the government and the people, ensuring public voices are heard.