KUALA LUMPUR: The launch of the Public Relations Practitioners Society of Malaysia (PRactitioners) is timely amidst the country's development, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
In his keynote address, he said that the role of public relations is vital as the country navigates the complexities of the digital era and faces unprecedented global challenges.
"The launch of PRactitioners is a testament to the maturity and ambition of Malaysia's PR industry.
"It reflects a collective desire to elevate standards, foster professionalism, and contribute more significantly to our nation's progress. This aligns with our government's vision for a more transparent, responsive, and engaged Malaysia," he said virtually at a conference in conjunction with World Public Relations Day celebrations.
Looking ahead to Malaysia's upcoming chairmanship of Asean next year, Fahmi said it is crucial to reflect on the strategic tools that will navigate this significant role successfully.
"Transparent and proactive communication is vital in building trust among Asean member states.
"As chairman, Malaysia will play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue, resolving conflicts, and driving collaborative initiatives.
"By leveraging PR, we can ensure that our communications are clear, transparent, and foster a sense of collective purpose.
"This will not only strengthen bilateral and multilateral relationships but also enhance our credibility as a fair and capable leader," he said.
Fahmi added that effective PR campaigns can educate the public about Asean's importance, the benefits of regional cooperation, and Malaysia's role therein.
He said it is also important to anticipate and manage potential challenges as the country prepares for the Asean chairmanship.
"Effective PR involves not just promoting positive stories but also addressing crises and criticisms with transparency and integrity.
"By having a robust crisis communication strategy in place, we can navigate uncertainties, protect our reputation, and maintain the confidence of our partners and the public," he said.