SEBERANG PERAI, Oct 4 (Bernama) -- The Community Communications Department (J-KOM) is placing greater emphasis on social media, with 70 per cent of its communication efforts focused on the platform to ensure government messages and achievements reach the people directly, particularly ahead of the Melaka state election.
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 will 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 told reporters after officiating the PMK Bersama-sama Komuniti Perai @ Batu Kawan 2026 at the Taman Chai Leng Multipurpose Hall here today.
The event, officiated by Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman and Perai assemblyman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, drew nearly 2,000 visitors from various races as of this morning.
On preparations for the Melaka state election, Mohd Hisyamuddin said J-KOM would intensify efforts to provide fact-based information to help voters make informed choices.
“For the Melaka state election, we will do our best to convey positive messages to the people. The information we provide is based on facts, not slander, 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,” he said.
Earlier, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced that the state legislative assembly was dissolved effective Sept 23 after obtaining the consent of Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam.
Meanwhile, Mohd Hisyamuddin said the PMK, held nationwide, also serves as a platform for J-KOM to engage with communities and obtain direct feedback on government policies and performance.
Participants are required to complete survey forms, enabling J-KOM to gauge public views and identify areas for improvement.
The PMK Bersama-sama Komuniti Perai @ Batu Kawan today brought together 37 government departments and agencies, providing access to information on public services, assistance, facilities and initiatives, as well as activities including Rahmah MADANI Sales, the Helmet Exchange Programme, NADI e-sports and traditional sports competitions, aerobics and Zumba sessions, and cultural and martial arts performances.
-- BERNAMA