Collaboration between the print media players needed

(Marketingmagazine.com.my) – Malaysian Newspaper Publishers Association’s (MNPA) re-elected Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Azlan Abdullah called for close partnerships amongst industry players to gain mutual benefits in a challenging year for print media.

While acknowledging that figures of print media experiencing downward trends, Azlan who is also The Chief Executive Officer of New Straits Times Press (Malaysia).

“Publishers have a very challenging year ahead but we have to continue to strengthen our position as the pre-eminent provider of news and content. I urge all members and stakeholders to come forward to play a more prominent role and have greater engagement with MNPA,” Azlan shared.

“While it continues to be collectively involved to witness our vision realised – particularly during these challenging economic times – I remain mindful that the Association’s ability to affect change is dependent on the strength of our membership, our strategic partnerships within the government and industry and the commitment of our Council Members.”

He also shared the association would also increase engagement with peer industry bodies and bolster industry-wide collaborations throughout the year, including introducing new initiatives to boost the standing of print media.

“I believe newspaper publishers are resilient entities throughout the centuries and as long as they persevere and evolve, print media will continue to be relevant in the future. There is a need for a united voice to promote, protect and represent the interests and welfare of the industry and its members.

He shared that the association’s main goals were to expand its membership and launch various activities and engagement with relevant stakeholders.

Azlan was elected unopposed at the MNPA’s 44th Annual General Meeting. Other MNPA executive committee appointments include Calvin Kan King Seong, Group COO, Star Media Group and Group COO cum CEO, Nanyang Press Holdings, Liew Sam Ngan were elected as the honorary secretary and honorary treasurer respectively.