Kuala Lumpur: More than 100 media practitioners from various agencies were celebrated today at a luncheon hosted by Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year (CNY) festivities. The Senior General Manager, Strategic Communications, Group Strategic Relations and Communications of Petronas, Siti Azlina Abd Latif, said the event served as a special opportunity to express gratitude for the meaningful partnership built with the media over the years. She emphasised the significance of the networking session, reflecting the company's unwavering commitment to appreciating the media's efforts and support.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Siti Azlina highlighted the essential role of media in bringing Petronas' journey to life over the past 50 years, helping the company share its stories with the world. In her welcoming speech, she acknowledged the media as storytellers and communicators who have been instrumental in the company's growth and outreach.
Also present were Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, as well as representatives of Petronas Dagangan Berhad, Petronas Chemicals Group Berhad, and Petronas Gas Berhad Gentari. At the event, the national oil company unveiled a captivating festive web film titled 'Stay', the first of its festive series under the theme Beyond Those Doors in celebration of Chinese New Year.
Directed by renowned filmmaker Caleb Huang, the web film tells the heartfelt story of a young boy, Xiao Bao, whose parents, facing economic hardships, entrust him to financially stable relatives in hopes of providing a better future. The film highlights the poignant experiences of the 1980s, reminding viewers of enduring values such as empathy, compassion, and mutual care, which are deeply embedded in Malaysia's cultural fabric.
Siti Azlina expressed hope that the film would inspire all Malaysians to foster unity and support, strengthening the bonds that define the nation. She announced that 'Stay' would start premiering today via Petronas' official YouTube and Facebook pages. In addition to the web film preview, Petronas further spread festive cheer to the underprivileged through Yayasan Petronas' Uplifting Lives Festive (ULF) initiative.
Under the programme, 2,100 families across 15 states will receive festive packs containing essential food items and specially sourced cookies from MEKAR Programme entrepreneurs, which were handed over to the Kuala Lumpur Social Welfare Department during the event. Siti Azlina stated that through this programme, the company strives to uplift communities across Malaysia by providing festive contributions to ease their burden, reflecting its commitment to sharing joy with all who celebrate.