THE national Press is a ‘partner’ in the nation’s development and an ‘open channel’ when it comes to reflecting the pulse of society, declared His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Deputy King and Crown Prince.
HRH Prince Salman pointed out the kingdom’s continuous keenness to consolidate free and responsible speech as freedom of the Press represents ‘freedom of speech, expression and allows for constructive, objective criticism’.
He added that a strong media reflecting facts, alongside original opinion, can only be good for the country and its citizens.
“The local Press and national media are major contributors to the comprehensive development process laid down by His Majesty King Hamad,” said HRH Prince Salman.
“It has played a prominent role in many national events by supporting all aspects and paths of development.”
He was speaking yesterday as he attended the sixth edition of the annual Prime Minister’s Journalism Awards ceremony held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay under his patronage.
Yasmin Khalaf from Al Bilad newspaper won for best column, Alawi Al Mousawi from Al Bilad for the best investigation, Sara Najeeb and Hussain Sabt from Al Ayam won for best interview and photographer Abdulameer Sultan, of the GDN’s Arabic sister daily Akhbar Al Khaleej, took the prize for the best image.
Present were Information Affairs Minister Dr Ramzan Al Nuaimi and former minister Ali Al Rumaihi along with ministers, senior officials, leading journalists and media professionals in Bahrain.
HRH Prince Salman congratulated the award winners, wishing them more success as they continue consolidating the noble message of the Press.
“Bahrain is rich with distinguished media competencies, which is a matter of constant pride and honour, stressing that the media is a major partner in the nation-building process,” he added.
“The Press plays a pivotal role in expressing the aspirations and opinions of society, and highlighting the national achievements that the people of the country continue to make in every field.”
In his speech, Dr Al Nuaimi said that the media sector in Bahrain, including its print, audio and visual divisions, continued to be credible and professional.
“The support from the leadership will continue to ensure the Press carries out its national mission and its role in supporting the process of growth and development.
“The award is an incentive for the media to continue to give more to serve the country at every level.”
Bahrain Journalists Association vice-president Abdulrahman Al Medfaa, speaking on behalf of media personnel present, expressed his gratitude for having the award come under the highest authority in the country.
“This highlights the value and importance of the sector and those working in it,” he added.
The award winners expressed their gratitude and appreciation to HRH Prince Salman for his continued support to the kingdom’s media professionals and for strengthening professional media standards in the nation.
A video on the progress the Press has made in the country since 1939 was screened at the event.
A commemorative gift was presented to HRH Prince Salman.
Bahrain Press Day falls on May 7. Nominations for the award were announced on the day.
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