BALI: The participation of the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) in The 11th World Conference on Media & Mass Communication (MEDCOM) 2026 in Bali, Indonesia is seen as a high-impact strategic move in strengthening preparations for the Sarawak Media Conference 2026, thereby placing the state on par with global media discourse.

The UKAS delegation, led by Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol was also joined by the Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee and UKAS Deputy Director Mohamed Faizal Shah Ali.

The conference, themed “Rethinking Media Futures: Sustainability, Resistance & Communication Justice,” brings together international media experts to discuss various critical issues including media industry sustainability, communication justice, as well as digital era challenges, and will run for two days.

The first day commenced with keynote sessions by global media figures highlighting the future direction of the industry, including innovations in information delivery and strategic approaches to tackling the spread of false information.

Meanwhile, Datuk Abdullah Saidol stated that UKAS's involvement in MEDCOM 2026 carries significant weight as it provides direct input into the content design and direction of the Sarawak Media Conference 2026.

“Exposure to these global perspectives allows UKAS to frame a conference that is more progressive, relevant, and responsive to the current media landscape,” he said when met at the conference on Monday.

He added that among the elements that could be adopted include the selection of high-impact themes, the involvement of international-level speakers, and a discussion approach that is more inclusive, dynamic, and solution-oriented.

At the same time, this participation also opens doors for UKAS to expand strategic cooperation networks with international media and academic institutions, potentially raising the credibility of the Sarawak Media Conference 2026 to a higher level.

In addition, the UKAS delegation obtained comprehensive exposure regarding best practices in organising large-scale conferences, covering aspects of event management, participant engagement, and the use of digital technology for more effective content delivery.

Overall, UKAS's involvement in MEDCOM 2026 is not merely participation on an international stage, but rather a vital catalyst in ensuring the Sarawak Media Conference 2026 appears more impactful, authoritative, and of a global standard. — UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim