KUCHING: Local radio stations are urged to play a more proactive role as a liaison between the government and the people, especially in delivering awareness messages on critical issues that directly affect the community, especially in rural areas.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol said radio remains the communication medium closest to the rural community and has great potential to be an effective channel for disseminating information.
"Radio presenters or DJs need to leverage their trust and influence among listeners to deliver important messages consistently, from time to time," he said when speaking at the 'Ari-Ari Gawai' Music Video Launch Ceremony produced by Kupikupi FM Sarawak at TEGAS Digital Village here on Saturday.
In the same speech, he highlighted three main issues that require immediate attention and action, namely online fraud (scams), vandalism of public infrastructure and online gambling.
“The public should always be reminded to be vigilant against suspicious phone calls or messages, as many have fallen victim to online fraud and lost their savings,” he stressed.
Commenting further, Datuk Abdullah said that the issue of vandalism, especially involving the theft of communication cables, not only affects the telecommunications system, but also causes losses of millions of ringgit and disrupts services to the public.
"In addition, online gambling activities are also increasingly worrying. Now there are virtual 'small casinos' that facilitate access to this illegal activity.
"Maybe you can work with the authorities because they have data and information to share to curb this activity," he explained.
Therefore, Datuk Abdullah stated UKAS's full commitment to work closely with radio stations in delivering information to the people.
He said, UKAS is ready to provide relevant data and information materials through a collaborative network with UKAS officers stationed in every district and division throughout Sarawak.
Meanwhile, touching on the music video 'Ari-Ari Gawai', Datuk Abdullah said, the work not only highlights traditional elements such as the dance and clothing of the Dayak community, but is also injected with modern music elements to attract the interest of the younger generation.
In this regard, he called on artists and art enthusiasts to continue to play a significant role in delivering meaningful messages through creative works of art.
Also present at the event were Kupikupi FM Sarawak Manager, Gideon Jute; Chief Executive Officer of AZAM Sarawak, Ali Suhaili; 'Ari-Ari Gawai' singers Rowena Jala and Hairee Francis and KupiKupifm employees. - UKASnews
