J-KOM boosting communication efforts on social media

SEBERANG PRAI: The Community Communications Department (J-KOM) is placing greater emphasis on social media, giving it 70 per cent of its communication efforts to ensure government messages and achievements reach the people.

Its director-general, Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali, said the shift was necessary as social media had become one of the main channels through which people obtain information.

The remaining 30 per cent would focus on outreach programmes and field activities, such as the Madani Kita Programme (PMK), which allows the government to engage directly with the public.

"Without a strong presence on social media, government messages will not reach the grassroots.

"PMK complements this by explaining government policies and achievements directly to the people, especially when negative messages circulating on social media can overshadow these achievements," he said after a PMK event here yesterday.

The event, launched by Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman and Prai assemblyman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, drew nearly 2,000 visitors.

On preparations for the Melaka election, Hisyamuddin said J-KOM would intensify efforts to provide fact-based information to help voters make informed choices.

"For the Melaka election, we will do our best to convey positive messages to the people.

"The information we provide is based on facts about the achievements of Malaysia Madani under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, so that the people can make the best choice."

Hisyamuddin said PMK served as a platform for J-KOM to engage with communities and obtain feedback on government policies and performance.

Participants are required to complete survey forms, allowing J-KOM to gauge public views and identify areas for improvement.

The PMK event yesterday brought together 37 departments and agencies, providing access to information on public services, assistance, facilities and initiatives.