KUALA LUMPUR: The Star's coverage on workers' protection has been recognised by Social Security Organisation (Socso), which presented a major award to one of its reporters.

       Allison Lai was awarded "best journalist for print media" and took home a RM2,000 cash reward at the inaugural Socso Media Awards.

       Star Media Group chief content officer Esther Ng received the award on behalf of Lai, who could not attend the ceremony as she was away in Melaka covering the state election.

       An overjoyed Lai said she wished she could be there to accept the award.

       "This is really a pleasant surprise and I thank Socso for the recognition," she said on Thursday (Nov 18).

       She also commended Socso for having been very forthcoming in sharing information and data with media practitioners, adding that it has helped considerably with the production of good stories highlighting Socso's achievements and efforts in workers' social security and protection.

       "The high level of work ethic shown by Socso should be emulated by other government agencies," she added.

       Socso chief executive officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said they received a total of 250 nominees for nine award categories.

       "The media acts as a bridge between Socso and the community by sharing information and news.

       "Without the media, it is possible that many would not know about the functions and benefits that Socso gives to its contributors," he said.

       Mohammed Azman also registered the organisation's appreciation of the media for having "created history after history with us" as Socso marked its golden jubilee this year.

       "Every photo and news excerpt by the brothers and sisters have helped to increase the level of public awareness of Socso's role in the protection of social security in the country."

       Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, in his opening speech, hailed the media for playing a role in clarifying misunderstandings among the people on the channelling or management of initiatives launched to help the affected workers.

       "I hope this Media Awards night will act as a catalyst for bridging the relationship between the ministry and its agencies, especially Socso, and the media," he said.