KUALA LUMPUR: In an effort to strengthen media relations, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) today celebrated members of the media through an appreciation night.
During the appreciation night, awards were also given to several media publications, including Media Prima Bhd, the National Malaysian News Agency (Bernama), Astro Awani, Sinar Harian, as well as Malaysia Gazette in recognition of their work in disseminating news to the community.
MAIWP chairman Tan Sri Dr Mohd Daud Bakar in his keynote address said the appreciation night was carried out to celebrate media that have tirelessly worked with the council in upholding its role in the community.
"We are grateful for the gathering with media tonight and we are delighted to present media entities the recognition (of their work), which plays a vital role in building trust within our community.
"Despite the council's modest size, the media has also continuously helped us in playing our role to serve the community better.
"Hence, the appreciation night is to celebrate you (media publications) as you are not foreigners to us; you are part of our struggles and victories and we want you to stand with us through thick and thin," he said.
At the same time, Mohd Daud also expressed his hope to work with media in an informal environment in the future.
This, he said, would also allow both the council and media to produce creative works for the community.
"We consider media as heroes that consistently contribute to our lives.
"Hence, we look forward to a more informal and creative relationship in our work, which will lead to more meaningful and impactful societal contributions.
"We also seek collaborative ideas to make the upcoming year vibrant, uplifting MAIWP's reputation on various platforms as well as contributing to economic, social, educational and religious ventures."