PETALING JAYA: Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing gives out flowers to female guests in conjunction with International Women's Day at the ministry's Media Appreciation Gala 2024, here.
During dinner, Tiong was seen walking around the event hall, handing out flowers to female media personnel, alongside his deputy minister, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan.
Several publications and radio and television networks, including the New Straits Times Press (NSTP), Bernama, Star Media Group Berhad, Astro, RTM, and Sin Chew Daily, were invited to the gala night.
Group managing editor Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman represented NSTP in receiving the certificate of appreciation.
NSTP photographer Rohanis Shukri said she was pleasantly surprised to receive a flower from the minister himself.
"I appreciate the ministry's effort in recognising Women's Day.
"This is the first time for me to receive a flower from a minister. It is a pleasant surprise," she said.
Khairul said the gala was held to strengthen ties between media groups and the ministry.
He expressed gratitude to the guests who provided expansive coverage in matters relating to the ministry.
"It is important for us to cooperate as a unit to ensure that necessary information is shared properly."
Khairul described his time working under Tiong as a good learning experience.
"Despite his intimidating demeanour, he (Tiong) provided me guidance and ensured that the ministry's directive could be achieved," he said in a speech.