Melaka: The Melaka Media Practitioners Club (Pendika) has proposed several key initiatives for the government to consider in strengthening the welfare and future well-being of Malaysia's media veterans. Its chairman, Amir Mamat, said the proposals include introducing a special gratuity or pension scheme for retired media practitioners in recognition of their contributions and years of service to the journalism and media industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pendika also suggests the establishment of a dedicated organisation to safeguard the welfare, interests, and sense of community among media veterans, ensuring they remain supported and connected after retirement. In addition, media veterans who have made significant contributions to journalism should be considered for national honours conferred annually by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as a form of recognition for their service.
At the same time, Amir mentioned that the vast experience and expertise of retired journalists should continue to be utilised by engaging them as lecturers, mentors, or guest speakers at universities, educational institutions, and other platforms involving communication and journalism students, as well as young media practitioners. He said such efforts would not only preserve and pass on valuable industry knowledge to future generations but also help nurture a new generation of media professionals who are ethical, responsible, and better equipped to navigate the challenges of modern journalism.
Pendika's proposals follow a recent call by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil for the Malaysian Media Clubs Coalition (GKMM) to submit specific recommendations aimed at improving the welfare of former media practitioners. Fahmi had reportedly said the proposals could be considered ahead of National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration, allowing the government to develop a more structured framework to support retired members of the media industry. The HAWANA 2026 main celebration, themed 'Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility', will be held in Penang on June 20.