PRIVATE TV AND RADIO STATIONS ASKED TO AIR MORE NATION-BUILDING PROGRAMMES

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 (Bernama) -- Information Communication and Culture
Minister Dr Rais Yatim is asking all private television and radio stations to
air more nation-building programmes, and not think of making profits only.

He said the main thrust of their programmes should be building unity, and
emphasising the 1Malaysia aspirations and the concept of nationhood and
independence.

"If possible, air lesser programmes which show racial and political
conflicts," he said after chairing a special meeting between him and private
broadcasting station officials at Angkasapuri, here, Thursday.

Rais said that amidst the prosperity and comfort enjoyed by Malaysian
society today, many still did not understand what Malaysia was all about and
know how to show gratitude to the nation.

"So, this is where the private TV and radio stations can play their role
in nation building through their news broadcasts, commentaries and forums.

"This is the duty of every TV and radio station licensed under the
Communications and Multimedia Act 1998."

Rais said his ministry would be monitoring the developments from time to
time through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, including
on how the broadcasting stations could reduce racial and political conflicts,
which could be detrimental to the nation.

On expressions of love for the nation, Rais said, the people actually needed
not be reminded by the nation's leaders each time the Merdeka (Independence)
month was approaching.

However, he accepted the fact that "today's society is much influenced by
other cultures that love for the nation cannot be fully felt or seen".

"As this year is the nation's 53rd independence anniversary celebration, we
want to see change. What's the problem for building owners to buy the national
flag and fly it at their premises? It's up to the people (to show patriotism),
we cannot be reminding them all the time," he said.
-- BERNAMA