KOTA KINABALU: The State Government highly values the role of the media fraternity  in raising issues affecting the state and people 

“The State Government appreciates your role in this aspect and I have no doubt the  media will continue to keep your ears on the ground and to report relevant issues so that  action can be taken. 

“The State Government will do its level best to act on it,” said Chief Minister Datuk Seri  Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor. 

Hosting the breaking of fast with Sabah media practioners at the Shangri-La’s Tanjung  Aru Resort and Spa near here today, he said the State Government is always keeping  check and to re-evaluate the performance of its machinery so that it will stays at the  optimum level. 

For example, he said he would not hesitate to overhaul any non-performing agency or  GLCs. 

“In fact, we are in the process of scrutinising several entities for restructuring. This is  necessary so that this will not bleed the state coffers,” he said. 

He said the media also played an important role in the development of the state and  people because media reports are sources of information for the government at the  grassroots level. 

“Again the government is thankful to the media in reporting past, present and future  efforts of the government. 

“Even during the recent political chaos in Sabah, the media was among the main  information source for the people to know the actual situation,” he said. 

At the same time, the Chief Minister urged the media to be responsible, professional and  to observe ethics in their reporting so that the people will not be confused and anxious. 

Hajiji said that during the month of Ramadan, he had attended breaking of fast events  in various places including in Peninsular Malaysia participated by people from all races  and religions.

This clearly showed that there is a harmony among the people of various race, religion  and culture, which must be protected at all costs. 

Towards this end, Hajiji said the mass media has an important role to play in ensuring  unity remained strong and peace is maintained among the multi-racial and religious  people in the state. 

“The State Government always hope that the media will cooperate by providing positive  and balanced reportings apart from protecting religious and racial sensitivity,” he said. 

Hajiji also called upon the media to continue supporting the government development  agenda, especially the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya, which is now entering its third year  of implementation. 

Also present were State Secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Sr Safar Untong, assistant  ministers, Sabah Journalists Association President Datuk Mugunthan Vanar, Kota  Kinabalu Journalists Association Chairman Jimmy Goh, chief editors and bureau chiefs. 

Ends