By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 30: Fifty journalists and media industry practitioners from across Sarawak attended and etiquette workshop hosted by Kuching Freelance Journalist Association (Pewarta) here today.
The workshop, supported by Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) and officiated by PDP deputy president Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, aimed to enhance professionalism in the media while strengthening the relationship between the media and government.
Henry, during his speech, emphasised the crucial role journalists play in shaping public opinion and fostering communication between the media themselves, the public, and the government.
He acknowledged that while media access is essential, upholding professionalism, especially in terms of dress code and conduct, is vital for maintaining credibility and respect at official events.
“We (government) rely on the media to deliver our messages, and through workshops like this, we aim to build a positive, collaborative relationship.
“Working together, we can improve the way news is delivered to the public, ensuring interactions are conducted with respect and professionalism,” said Henry.
The workshop addressed these concerns by providing insights into professionalism, with participants learning how to better represent their respective organisations at high-profile events and how to maintain decorum in sensitive situations.
Leading the workshop was Dr Dianne Tsen, an expert in corporate training with over 20 years of experience, who shared her expertise on the importance of personal image, professionalism, and leadership.
Joining her was Mohamed Salleh Sani, protocol officer at Astana Negeri Sarawak, whose session focused on journalistic protocol, including how to conduct interviews with high-profile individuals and navigate diplomatic press scenarios with proper etiquette.
A distinctive aspect of the workshop was its eligibility for World Civility Index (WCI) points, in collaboration with the International Soft Skills Standards and Testing (IITTI) which is supported by the United Nations (UN).
Participants were awarded certificates acknowledging their commitment to enhancing professionalism and civility within the media industry. — DayakDaily
