CHEERS: Lu (centre) with (from left) Teo, Wong, Chai and Wee proposing a toast to all invited guests. — Photo by Hiew Man Chien
KUCHING: The Federation of Kuching-Samarahan Chinese Associations has decried violence against any media personnel who are duty-bound to defend freedom of the press.
Its president Temenggong Lu Kim Yong said as both journalists and photographers were on the ground to report the latest happenings, they should, therefore, deserve respect from all.
“We strongly condemn violence including physical assault caused by anyone on any media. Freedom of media must be respected to safeguard social equality.
“Freedom of media is equally important for the progress of the nation. The local media have been discharging their duties in an objective manner,” he told a media appreciation dinner here Sunday.
More than 30 media personnel attended the dinner hosted by the federation in conjunction with the coming Lunar New Year that starts Feb 10.
Lu said many of those involved in community-based activities realised the challenges faced by the media, particularly in view of the rising demand for transparency and efficiency of news delivery.
The challenge had even heightened as a result of more and more people opting for social media networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter for news, he noted.
“Despite the various challenges, you all have performed a good job. We appreciate your cooperation and assistance to cover our activities.
“While expressing our gratitude to all of you, we hope you will continue to be supportive of our upcoming events as well as to help disseminate information.”
He hoped that the Year of the Snake would bring good health, success and happiness to every member of the press.
Among those present were the federation’s deputy president Wong Tiong Hook, vice president Richard Wee and executive advisors Michael Teo and Chai Tze Khin.