KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) continues to achieve remarkable success in 2024 with excellent achievements across various aspects including media management, promotional programmes and community engagement.

UKAS Director, Samuel Simon revealed that as of October this year, notable achievements include the production of 18,359 Bulletin UKAS news, TikTok platform views reaching 10.8 million, and the UKAS Facebook page recording a reach of 2.7 million with 243,738 followers.

He highlighted additional achievements, including the creation of 1,259 infographics and the completion of 32 live-streaming sessions.

Furthermore, teaser videos produced by UKAS garnered a reach of 2.3 million, with 37 billboards set-up and 16 training courses conducted.

In terms of documentation, UKAS compiled 3,448 news  clippings, produced 195 video montages, and managed 1,584 related issues.

He also noted that other significant milestones included 18 ‘Juh Randau’ sessions and 34 field reports.

Regarding media management, UKAS conducted 463 media-related activities, demonstrating its commitment to strengthen strategic ties with both local and national media organisations.

“The year 2024 also saw UKAS actively participating in major events such as the Sarawak Media Conference 2024 with AZAM Sarawak, HAWANA 2024 in collaboration with BERNAMA, as well as the 21st SUKMA and Para SUKMA.

“As the lead agency for the Publicity, Promotion, and Media Committee, UKAS collaborated with media partners such as TVS, RTM, BERNAMA, FINAS, Astro Awani, and others.

“Our victory in both sporting events is a testament to the exceptional teamwork and commitment of all parties involved.

“We extend our utmost gratitude to Datuk Abdullah Saidol (Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS)) and Datu Hii Chang Kee (Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation)) for their guidance and unwavering support,” he said.

He said this in his welcoming address during the 2024 UKAS Appreciation Ceremony which was officiated by Datuk Abdullah at a leading hotel here, on Sunday.

The event also honoured recipients of the 2023 Excellence Service Awards in recognition of their contributions to UKAS’ success.

Certificates and cash prizes were also presented to winners of the photography and article-writing competition held in conjunction with the 21st SUKMA.

Muhammad Rais Sanusi secured first place in the photography category, followed by Mohamad Faitullah Morni as the runner-up, and Mohmad Nahari Nahar in third place.

Meanwhile, Agnes Tugong claimed first place in the article-writing category, with Jude Peter Toyat and Mohammad Roji Abdullah taking second and third places respectively.

Also present at the event were Datu Hii, Director of the Sarawak Protocol, Ceremonial and Event Management Unit (UPPANS), Datu Hamdan Sharbini, Director of the Malaysian Information Department (JAPEN) Sarawak, Helmy Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Brunei Darussalam (STATOB), Samat Junai, Chief Executive Officer of AZAM, Ali Suhaili, and other guests of honour. -UKASnews