KUCHING: The Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia (GKMM) can provide crucial support to media practitioners in need or facing adversity through the Tabung Kasih@Hawana Fund, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
The fund, an initiative by the ministry and implemented through the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), aims to assist journalists and media practitioners requiring help, irrespective of their current service status or retirement.
Fahmi said GKMM could form strategic partnerships with Bernama to manage the fund effectively, ensuring more media practitioners receive the necessary support and care.
“This step is seen as a good opportunity for us to establish strategic relationships and I hope that not only welfare related issues can be addressed but also other matters concerning the future well-being of media practitioners,” he said when met after the launch of GKMM at a hotel here last night (May 25).
Adding on, Fahmi said other GKMM roles include assisting in coordinating media clubs and associations throughout Malaysia while paying attention to matters involving welfare or other issues faced by media practitioners in their own respective states.
“It is certain that each state has certain challenges. So, this coalition will be able to reflect the coherence and diversity of the media situation in each state,” he said.
Thus, Fahmi suggested aligning GKMM’s annual general meeting (AGM) with each Hawana event, citing the gathering’s ability to unite media practitioners nationwide.
“For me, the GKMM’s establishment was apt and timely, especially since this year’s Hawana edition focuses on sustainability,” he added.
Earlier during the event, Fahmi also announced an initial allocation of RM20,000 to GKMM to support its activities and programmes.
