Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement of an additional RM1 million allocation for the Tabung KasihHAWANA fund and the continuation of the Media Innovation Fund has been welcomed as a boost to both the welfare and competitiveness of the country's media industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) director-general Ashwad Ismail stated that the announcement reflects the importance of media organisations continuing to innovate and adapt to technological developments. Ashwad highlighted the need for the media to respond swiftly to the ever-changing world, driven by innovations such as artificial intelligence, to remain relevant and prepared for the future. He emphasized that Anwar recognizes the necessity for ongoing reform and transformation within the media sector, and the fund's continuation would help local media organisations enhance their capabilities.
Kelantan Darul Naim Media Club (KEMUDI) president Muhammad Yatimin Abdullah acknowledged the significance of the additional allocation for the Tabung KasihHawana, which supports the welfare of media practitioners and former journalists in need. Utusan Malaysia journalist Muhammad Yatimin noted that the Media Innovation Fund is essential for media organisations to stay resilient and competitive amidst growing industry challenges.
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Journalists Club president Wan Syamsul Amly Wan Seadey expressed that the announcement is particularly meaningful in supporting innovation efforts to keep the industry relevant. The Astro Awani journalist described the additional allocation to the Tabung KasihHawana as a positive measure for safeguarding the welfare of media practitioners, especially freelancers facing income constraints. He proposed the introduction of an education fund by HAWANA next year to aid journalists in furthering their education and enhancing their skills.
Han Chiang University College of Communication lecturer Siti Nooraeina Omar commented on the cruciality of the Media Innovation Fund, which previously received an allocation of RM30 million, in ensuring the local media industry remains relevant in a rapidly evolving communications landscape. She stressed that media organisations must embrace modernisation and technology to improve news production processes, while journalists continue to play a vital role in verifying information.