PETALING JAYA: Dealing with the media confidently and responding to questions professionally were what visitors from the Armed Forces' National Resilience College (NRC) learned in a study visit to Media Prima Bhd's studios at Sri Pentas here today.
The senior officers, mostly generals and admirals, were introduced to communication skills when dealing with journalists. The half-day programme, which included a visit to Studio A (television news) and Media Prima Audio conty, aimed to provide the visitors with an insight into the media world.
NRC commandant Major-General Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng said the study visit was an eye-opener on how the media works and ways to foster ties with journalists.
"Today's visit is crucial as they are exposed to techniques in facing the media that require precise, convincing factual information to reassure the public.
"They are trained to engage the media carefully, especially in issues related to national security. There is some information that cannot be disclosed.
"In providing information to the media, they must have ethics and adhere to military standard operating procedures. What we can disclose to the public who want to know the situation is crucial," he said at Sri Pentas today.
Lim said the media was an important entity and a pillar for closer engagement with the public.
"During crises, rapid, accurate facts are needed. Today's session assists them with techniques for providing sincere answers promptly."
NRC Cohort 5/24 course participant First Admiral Azhar Baharum said the MPB session had significantly contributed to his readiness in managing media interactions.
"This aspect of our college curriculum, exposing us to such activities, significantly aids us in navigating media engagements and addressing inquiries from the press.
"I'm genuinely thrilled and gratified to have visited Sri Pentas and gained insight into its operations, as this knowledge will undoubtedly prove invaluable in future encounters with the media.
"Given the scope of our responsibilities, it's imperative to furnish journalists with accurate information. Today's experience will undoubtedly enhance our ability to do so effectively in the future," said Azhar.
The Putrajaya-based NRC, established in 2019, was the first and most senior college of the Armed Forces, aimed at fostering grand strategic thinking, besides emerging as a think tank option to realise the government's goals and plan future policies.
Present were MPB group chairman Datuk Seri Syed Hussain Aljunid, Media Prima Omnia chief operating officer (Sales) Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar, Media Prima Television Networks deputy group editor (news and current affairs) Azhari Muhidin and the New Straits Times executive editor Sharanjit Singh Tara Singh.
Lim and his representatives also received a brief corporate presentation on MPB's operations, including television and radio stations, newspapers and outdoor advertising.
