Assistant Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister Sakiusa Tubuna commended the media for their role in the economic recovery.
Speaking at the 18th Asia Media Summit (AMS) 2023 in Bali, Indonesia, Mr Tubuna said the role of the media in promoting sustainable economic development was crucial as effective communication could educate and inspire people to adopt sustainable practices that could lead to long-term economic growth.
Assistant Minister Tubuna adds the recent repealing of draconian media laws such as the Media Industry Development Act (Act) which required journalists and media organisations to register in order to operate in Fiji has been seen as a positive step towards promoting freedom of the press and encouraging independent journalism.
“Through the Act, harsher penalties were imposed on journalists and media organisations that violated the law, including fines and imprisonment. By repealing this Act, the media is now able to report without restriction and be empowered to hold governments accountable for their economic policies and decisions,” he said.
“By investigating and reporting on government spending, corruption, and other economic issues, the media can help ensure that public funds are being used effectively and efficiently.”
He encouraged the media to avoid sensationalising news and creating false narratives that can cause panic or misinformation and aim to provide balanced and unbiased reporting that presents the facts in a clear and concise manner.
