SHAH ALAM: Malaysian journalism must liberate itself from a national discourse that solely revolves around politics and stories crafted merely for traction.
Abdul Rashid Yusof, spokesman for apakhabartv.com, has called on the need for a revival in Malaysian journalism, urging the nation to inspire more students to learn the fundamentals of journalism.
"If (Tan Sri) A. Samad Ismail were present today, he would ask: What is the current state of Malaysian journalism?
"The national discourse should extend beyond politics and the gaining traction. We must break free from (these constraints).
"Instead, let's explore ways to motivate students to acquire the essential skills of journalism, as it is the foundation for safeguarding the nation's dignity," he said during his speech at the Simposium Memperingati Tan Sri A. Samad Ismail, here, today.
Rashid, who is a former New Straits Times group editor, expressed disappointment over the increasing number of cybertroopers attacking veteran newsman Datuk A. Kadir Jasin.
"It is our responsibility to unlock the true potential of cybertroopers.
"They are quick learners but lack guidance. Imagine if we could train them to be responsible individuals; they could genuinely contribute to the country," he said.
The symposium, organised by Universiti Teknologi Mara's (UiTM) Communication and Media Studies Faculty in collaboration with the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation, International Islamic University Malaysia (ISTAC-IIUM), aims to explore the thoughts and contributions of this national journalism figure within the socio-political context of Malaysia.