KUCHING: The Federation of Sarawak Journalists Associations (FSJA) elected new office bearers for the term 2012 to 2013 during its annual general meeting on Friday.
Sulok Tawie of the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) was elected president.
He will be assisted by vice-presidents Rick Wong of Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) and Yii Souk Ming of Institute of Rajang Journalists (IRJ).
Also on the committee are secretary-general Jeeridyne Chan (KDJA), assistant secretary-general Pang Boon Soon of Sibu Journalists Association (SJA), treasurer Antonia Chiam (KDJA), assistant treasurer Jenny Lau (NSJA) and ordinary members Alice Wee (KDJA), Jacqueline Atiqah David (KDJA), Annie Kuan (NSJA), Jong Wan Joon (NSJA), Roger Tiong (IRJ), Yii Mei Hong (IRJ), Lau Su Hung (SJA) and Edward Subeng Stephen (SJA).
In his speech, Sulok reminded journalists on the need to be impartial.
“We may be supporters of certain parties personally, but we do not want the federation and its affiliates to be used by either the ruling coalition or the opposition. We must be truthful in what we write,” he stressed.
He said a proposed media council may be necessary to regulate the profession so that it is more credible.
“The media council is similar to the Bar Council and other professional regulating bodies and this council will deal with the conduct of journalists, among others.
“Any allegations of unfair or twisted reporting can be brought up to this council, which serves like an independent complaints bureau.
“The National Union of Journalists and the Attorney-General Chambers are still working on the provisions and looking at all feasible aspects before forming the council,” he explained.
Sulok pointed out that the year ahead will be challenging for the media fraternity and urged members to update themselves on matters that will affect the profession.