KOTA KINABALU: The state government remains committed to supporting the media industry through financial sponsorship for the organization of the Kinabalu Press Awards (KPA), said Chief Minister, Hajiji Noor.
He said that since 2025, sponsorship contributions for KPA have increased to RM110,000, compared to RM100,000 in 2024.
“This increase in sponsorship demonstrates the state government’s appreciation and recognition of journalists’ contributions, while supporting efforts to enhance excellence among media practitioners in Sabah.
“Therefore, the state government will continue to support this event as its main sponsor. This year, the state government remains the largest contributor to the Kinabalu Press Awards,” he said during the Kinabalu Press Awards (KPA) 2026 ceremony here on Saturday.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Joniston Bangkuai.
He added that the state government highly values journalists as strategic partners in disseminating government policies and development achievements to the public.
“News reporting, particularly on the Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda, has been carried out exceptionally well. In fact, during the period leading up to the dissolution of the Sabah State Legislative Assembly (DUN) and throughout the 17th State Election, media practitioners were directly involved, especially in news coverage.
“I personally witnessed how media practitioners worked tirelessly, putting in extra hours, pursuing stories from various angles, and ensuring that every report delivered was accurate and upheld the highest standards of integrity.
“Throughout that period, I also saw media personnel working around the clock, regardless of weather conditions, to report every important development. Congratulations and well done to all media practitioners for your dedication and commitment to your duties,” he said.
While acknowledging the importance of timely news reporting, he stressed that accuracy and factual integrity must never be compromised.
“I therefore urge all media practitioners to continue carrying out their responsibilities with integrity, guided by professional and responsible journalism principles.
“Media practitioners must continue to report news that is accurate, transparent, ethical, and not easily influenced by misinformation,” he said. – PR/BNN.
