In 2007, two companies were selected for honours, TV3 and the New Straits Times Sdn Bhd. Both media are a feature of every day life in Malaysia and have penetrated to homes, coffee-shops and workplaces across the nation.
The New Sunday Times has covered a wide range of subjects to spotlight CSR efforts and issues being undertaken across the country. By focusing on outstanding personalities in the community, the paper has highlighted efforts to conserve art and culture that are on the brink of extinction, efforts to develop Malaysia’s theatre and film industry, environmental conservation, sporting excellence, challenges of the physically and mentally disabled. This has been the continuation of committed effort over many years and is expected to continue. The keen interest and Involvement of management to support quality reporting of these issues is reflected in its willingness to provide media space to cover CSR initiatives.
TV3‘s news and current affairs as well as its weekly 360 Magazine programme have played a central role in bringing the spotlight to various issues that impact the community. Major features have included cases of rights infringement, such as giving housebuyers who have been cheated by housing developers an opportunity to air their grievances.
360 Magazine, meanwhile, has covered the plight of street people, child labourers and Mat Rempits, seeking to put into perspective these phenomena. Taking a compassionate view, these shows have sought to create an awareness and understanding among viewers of the specific social conditions that create these community problems. The approach to this form of reporting stems from the conviction of its management and staff that it is necessary to highlight community issues and to help all Malaysians understand the needs and concerns of the less privileged members of society so that they can be part of efforts to eradicate poverty and hardship.
The Prime Minister’s CSR Awards, launched by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development in 2007, recognises companies that are making a difference through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes.
