KUALA LUMPUR: The Star Media Group (SMG) has played a role to help build the nation since its inception in 1971, says Tan Sri Annuar Musa (pic).

       "We have built this nation together, and this is a media company that promoted national aspirations for the last five decades.

       "The Star has also inculcated genuine patriotism in the country," said the Communications and Multimedia Minister, congratulating SMG on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

       "May you continue to uphold the gold standard of journalism. We look forward to continuing shaping the nation, together, as one Keluarga Malaysia," he said during his keynote address at Shangri-La Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (Nov 9).

       While recounting a childhood experience reading The Star, Annuar said the paper had come a long way.

       "I remember reading The Star in the old days and it is obvious, while relatively young for a media organisation globally, it has accomplished much over the past five decades," he said.

       Annuar also said as a print publication, The Star had played its part well to be synonymous with "trusted and reliable news".

       "The media is the important fourth estate as it should be in any democratic country.

       "I applaud the Star Media Group for bringing eye-opening stories on their front pages and then following up on it to ensure that action is taken by the authorities.

       "Although at times, some stories are not favourable for the government, The Star has proven that they indeed live up to their tagline – The People's Paper.

       Annuar also paid tribute to every media personnel behind The Star for its role in disseminating efforts by the government to the people.

       "I would like to express my utmost appreciation and gratitude to all reporters, editors, photographers, videographers and all those involved in news-making whose contributions were even more evident and we could not do without during this time of Covid-19.

       "You are our unsung frontliners for you have been on the ground, pushing yourselves to ensure accountability despite the risks – for verified information, and doing your part to debunk fake information.

       "Although sometimes we forget to mention you, but remember, we never forget the media in everything that we do as a government. Thank you for fighting the good fight. Applause for all of you!"

       Annuar also said The Star, since it was established, had managed to move beyond "printed words" and was one of the pioneers bringing news to the country online.

       He said it has since grown to become a multimedia entity.

       "From award programmes, education and property fairs, to home expos and numerous other activities that cater to the masses, many of these brands have become household names."

       Also present at the golden jubilee celebration were Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, MCA secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, SMG chairman Tan Sri Chor Chee Heung, SMG CEO Alex Yeow, SMG chief content officer Esther Ng and SMG group adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.