KPKT Respects Media Freedom, Works Closely With The Press - Nga

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 (Bernama) -- The MADANI Government has always prioritised media freedom and has no intention whatsoever to sideline the role of the media, said Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.

He emphasised that a close and mutually understanding relationship between the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) and the media is crucial to ensure that government policies and initiatives are communicated and understood more inclusively and effectively.

He said this in a statement issued today after KPKT had held a morning tea session with several representatives from major media associations at the ministry’s office in Putrajaya.

The session was attended by Nga, along with representatives from the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ), the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm).

“The session also served as an open platform for exchanging views and ideas towards strengthening synergy between the ministry and the media in advancing the Malaysia MADANI agenda for the people’s well-being and the nation’s prosperity,” KPKT said in the statement.

Others present included KPKT secretary-general Datuk Nor Azman Taib, NUJ president Low Boon Tat and the union’s secretary-general Teh Athira Mohamed Yusof.

Yesterday, Nga apologised and withdrew a statement he made against a journalist during the pre-launch of the I Lite U lighting project in Bukit Bintang here recently, which had caused dissatisfaction among media representatives.

A video recording of the event went viral on social media, showing Nga responding rather sharply to a question from a media representative, drawing criticism from various quarters, including NUJ and Geramm.

-- BERNAMA