PUTRAJAYA: The Communications Ministry will prioritise the participation of veteran artistes in its events or programmes to ensure that they could continue to showcase their work.

Minister Fahmi Fadzil said this approach could be implemented at the agency and departmental levels under the ministry.

"Any event organised by the ministry that requires the presence of artistes should prioritise the veterans...please consider and give opportunities to veteran artistes to continue contributing to the country and encourage them to continue their creative work.

"This initiative can alleviate the burden on veteran artistes, who we often see facing difficult and challenging times.

"This effort aligns with the ministry's initiatives to always support the community, especially those who have entertained us in the past," he said at the ministry's 2023 Excellent Service Award (APC) ceremony for Peninsular Zone here today.

As civil servants under a ministry that has the role of disseminating accurate information to the public, Fahmi wants all APC recipients to be well-informed about all initiatives announced by the government, namely the Madani Economy Framework: Empowering the People; the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030); the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR); and the review of the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA).

"If you don't know all these things, or cannot remember, how can you convey those information to the public? You all are the strong foundation and basis for all these initiatives," he said.

Fahmi also reminded all APC recipients not only to excel in their workplace but also to continue demonstrating excellence in their daily lives and to be the best examples for their colleagues.

"You must be the best example to your peers so that they do not engage in corruption or turn away from their duties to serve the country.

"I wish the best for everyone...I hope those who have not yet received the APC will continue to work hard," he said.

Meanwhile, Fahmi once again reminded the public not to spread any unverified information through any platform as it could lead to slander.

"We know that with fast and cheap internet, 5G coverage….misinformation and inaccurate information spread faster. Do not share it in your neighbourhood, surau, or office groups because it can cause slander," he said.

On an insult to Islam made on social media allegedly involving a receipt from a fast food operator in Penang, Fahmi said a police report had been made on the matter and that the ministry is also looking into it.

So far, it is learnt that the insulting remark on the receipt was not made by the fast food operator, but was stated in the comment section for online customers to give specific instructions for their orders, he added. - Bernama

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/05/1051380/communications-ministry-prioritise-participation-veteran-artistes-events