by Amanda L
KUCHING, Dec 3: The Sarawak government’s decision to provide a one-off RM700 incentive to private media practitioners has drawn strong support from several media associations, who described the initiative as timely and meaningful.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the allocation during his winding-up speech at the Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today. The incentive applies to practitioners registered with six media associations in the State as of December 1, 2025.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said the Premier has always prioritised the media’s role in communicating development agendas and new economic initiatives to the public.
He said media practitioners serve as an essential bridge between the government and the community, ensuring that policies and objectives are clearly understood to secure broad public cooperation. He added that, for this reason, the request for special assistance for media practitioners was readily supported and approved by the Premier.
The Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) said the move reflects the government’s continued commitment to media welfare.
President Ronnie Teo said the assistance would help members manage their daily needs and acknowledged the State’s repeated recognition of journalists’ contributions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that previous support under the Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang packages also demonstrated the government’s understanding of the risks and responsibilities faced by media workers.
The Kuching Freelance Journalist Association (Pewarta) echoed the appreciation. Its president, Peter Sibon, described the financial support as the second such initiative extended to the media under the current administration. He said the gesture aligns with the Premier’s broader social inclusivity agenda and hoped continued leadership would drive Sarawak to greater heights.
The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) Sarawak branch also welcomed the incentive.
Chairwoman Nancy Nais said the assistance recognises the essential role journalists play in informing the public and maintaining social cohesion. She added that the gesture would ease members’ burdens and motivate practitioners to uphold professionalism and integrity in their work. — DayakDaily
