Kuala lumpur: The media is recognized as a strategic partner to the government in disseminating information and raising awareness about environmental sustainability, according to Datuk Dr Ching Thoo Kim, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). Dr Ching expressed the ministry's appreciation for the media's role in promoting NRES programs during the NRES Media Appreciation Ceremony.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Ching highlighted the media's importance by referring to it as 'the fourth government,' emphasizing that without platforms such as Facebook and TikTok, society would lack vital information. He pointed out the effective role the media plays in generating public awareness on crucial issues, including environmental and wildlife matters.

Dr Ching cited a specific incident that underscored the media's impact-when a five-year-old elephant was killed on the Gerik road, receiving significant media attention and public empathy. The NRES Media Appreciation Ceremony served as a gesture of gratitude towards media practitioners for their extensive coverage and cooperation with the ministry over the past year.

The event was attended by Deputy Secretary-General (Natural Resources) Datuk Mas Rizal Mohd Hilmi, Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, along with chief editors, editors, and over 200 media representatives from 25 local agencies.