Ramanan lauds media for taking government policies to millions

KUALA LUMPUR: Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan has commended journalists for their crucial role in disseminating government policies and initiatives to the public. He revealed that more than 40,000 media reports on his ministry's work had been published since he assumed office on December 12. Speaking at the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) Media Awards 2026, Ramanan emphasized the importance of journalists as a bridge between the government and the people, delivering information responsibly and ethically.

Describing the coverage as a proud achievement, he highlighted the significant impact of the media in reaching millions of people. Ramanan explained that while his speeches might reach only a few hundred attendees, the reach extends far beyond through the efforts of journalists, who bring the government's announcements to a broader audience.

He acknowledged the challenging nature of the job, but expressed confidence in the abilities of journalists, stating that they are doing a fantastic job. Ramanan also introduced the Kencana Award, a new accolade to recognize the best journalism with the greatest societal impact. The New Straits Times' Intan Maizura Ahmad Kamal was awarded the inaugural Kencana Award.

He also praised Perkeso Chief Executive Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed for his election as president of the International Social Security Association, noting the global recognition this position entails. Ramanan commended Perkeso for its world-class standards, highlighting the achievement of Dr Rajan Gopal, a former senior editor of Makkal Osai, who had dedicated 50 years to journalism, including 15 years with Makkal Osai.

The event also saw the attendance of Perkeso Chairman Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal and Media Prima Bhd COO Datuk Mohd Effendy Othman.